Actresses Lim Ji-yeon and Shin Ye-eun have successfully reinvented their careers following the global success of The Glory.
Before the hit Netflix drama, Lim Ji-yeon frequently faced criticism over her acting despite attracting attention through films such as Obsessed and The Treacherous. While she built a reputation through bold performances, she struggled to shake off a mature-image stereotype and received mixed reviews in several television projects.
Her breakthrough came with her portrayal of the ruthless school bully Park Yeon-jin in The Glory. The role showcased a darker, more layered side of her acting, earning widespread praise and prompting many viewers to describe it as a career-defining performance. Since then, she has continued her momentum through projects including Lies Hidden in My Garden, The Tale of Lady Ok, and the currently airing My Royal Nemesis, further cementing her status as a leading actress.
Shin Ye-eun experienced a different challenge. After rising to fame through the web drama A-Teen, she struggled to find a major hit despite appearing in several television dramas. Critics noted that she had yet to secure a defining project capable of matching the popularity of her debut success.
That changed with The Glory, where she played the younger version of Park Yeon-jin. Although her screen time was limited, her chilling portrayal helped establish the character’s backstory and effectively complemented Lim Ji-yeon’s performance. The role allowed Shin Ye-eun to break away from her bright, youthful image and demonstrate a broader acting range.
Following the series, Shin ye-eun expanded her filmography with projects such as Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born and A Hundred Memories. Her latest drama, Doctor on the Edge, has also posted strong early ratings, signaling another successful chapter in her career.
While their journeys differed, both actresses share a common turning point: The Glory. For Lim Ji-yeon, it helped silence long-standing doubts about her acting ability. For Shin Ye-eun, it ended years of discussions about her lack of major hits. Today, both stars are enjoying some of the strongest momentum of their careers.
Sources: Daum | 텐아시아