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Kwon Yu-ri
Kwon Yu-ri
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Kwon Yu-ri (Korean권유리; born December 5, 1989), known mononymously as Yuri, is a South Korean singer, actress, and songwriter. She debuted as a member of girl group Girls' Generation (and later its subgroup Girls' Generation-Oh!GG) in August 2007, which went on to become one of the best-selling artists in South Korea and one of South Korea's most widely known girl groups worldwide. Apart from her group's activities, she has acted in several television dramas such as Fashion King (2012), Local Hero (2016), Innocent Defendant (2017), Dae Jang Geum Is Watching (2018), Bossam: Steal the Fate (2021), and Good Job (2022). In 2013, she made her film debut in No Breathing. In 2018, she made her debut as a soloist with her first extended play The First Scene.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Yuri was born in Deogyang District, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, on December 5, 1989.[1] She has one older brother, Kwon Hyuk-joon.[2][3] She auditioned at the SM Entertainment Casting System and joined the company in 2001 after finishing in second place in the 2001 SM Youth Best Dancer Contest. She then underwent training for 5 years and 11 months before her debut. She graduated from Neunggok High School in 2008.[4] She and Sooyoung were appointed as Chung-Ang University new ambassadors on May 20, 2014.[5] On February 15, 2016, she graduated with a degree in Theater and Film as well as receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award as Honorary Ambassador of the school at the graduation ceremony.[6][7][8]

Career

[edit]

2007–2010: Girls' Generation debut and solo activities

[edit]

Yuri made her official debut as a member of the 9-member girl group, Girls' Generation in August 2007. Aside from her group's activities, she had a small role in a television segment, The King's Boyfriend, which was part of the documentary Super Junior Show by S.M Entertainment's boy group Super Junior. She also made a cameo appearance as a ballerina in the film, Attack on the Pin-Up Boys, which also stars the members of Super Junior.[9]

Yuri performing in 2008

In 2008, Yuri had a recurring role in the 2008 KBS2 sitcom, Unstoppable Marriage, where she played a high school student along with fellow member Sooyoung.[10] In June, she sang a duet called "Kkok (Must!)" with Sooyoung for the soundtrack of SBS television series, Working Mom.[11] Yuri also became a cast member in the second season of Kko Kko Tours Single♥Single, a dating show between celebrities.[12]

In 2009, she was announced to be a host of MBC music program, Show! Music Core with fellow member Tiffany.[13] In April, K.Will released the music video of "Dropping The Tears", featuring Yuri. She then performed a special stage with him for one of his performances of the song on Show! Music Core, playing the piano in the background.[14] At the end of the year, Yuri was cast alongside Sunny as one of the 7 girl group members, dubbed as 'G7' in the KBS2 reality variety show, Invincible Youth, for which she earned a nomination as Best Female MC at the 2010 KBS Entertainment Awards.[15]

As Girls' Generation started preparing for their Japanese debut, their schedules became busier. Because of this, Yuri and Sunny left Invincible Youth in June 2010.[16] For the same reason, she and Tiffany also had to leave Show Music Core in the following month to focus on the group's activities.[17][18]

Yuri made her first contribution as a songwriter for Girls' Generation's third mini album, Hoot, where she wrote the lyrics for the track, "Mistake".[19] In September, she was featured in the track "Like A Soap," from TVXQ's sixth Korean studio album Catch Me.[20]

2011–2014: Acting career

[edit]

In October 2011, Tiffany and Yuri returned to Show! Music Core and hosted the show until January 2012 when Yuri left the show once again to focus on her drama debut.[21]

In 2012, Yuri made her acting debut in SBS drama series Fashion King alongside actor Yoo Ah-in.[22][23] Yuri received nominations at the 5th Korea Drama Awards and the 2012 SBS Drama Awards for her acting performance, and received the New Star Award at the latter on December 31.[24]

Yuri at VIP premiere of the film No Breathing in October 2013

In 2013, Girls' Generation released their fourth Korean studio album, I Got a Boy, which has two of its tracks' lyrics co-written by Yuri. "Baby Maybe" was co-written by Yuri and her fellow members Sooyoung and Seohyun, while "XYZ" was penned with Seohyun. In June, she appeared alongside Hyoyeon in Mnet's global dance survival show, Dancing 9. The two coached the show's contestants as "K-pop dance masters" along with other notable stars who also appeared as dance masters in their specific fields.[25]

Yuri made her film debut in the same year, when she was cast as the female lead in South Korea's first swimming-themed film, No Breathing. In the coming-of-age film, Yuri portrayed the role of Jung-eun, a girl who dreams of becoming a musician who is also the love interest of the two male leads played by Lee Jong-suk and Seo In-guk.[26][27] Aside from learning how to play the guitar for her character, Yuri also sang two songs for the film's soundtrack, "Bling Star" and "Twinkle Twinkle" which she performed in the film.[28]

In October 2014, she acted as a couple with Lee Ji-hoon in the music video of "Without You" by S, which is the group's comeback single after 11 years.[29]

2015–2017: Variety shows and return to acting

[edit]
Yuri performing at the DMC Festival in September 2015.

In January 2015, Yuri joined MBC's variety show, Animals, becoming the only female member of the cast.[30][31] Yuri was also a guest on the programs Star With Two Job and Dating Alone.[32][33] In May, Yuri was chosen to host Olive TV's travel program MAPS with Choi Kang-hee.[34] She also joined the cast of Our Neighborhood Arts and Physical Education for its swimming special, showing off her swimming skills for the first time.[35] On July 23, it was revealed that Yuri was cast as a host in an SBS reality show about rally drivers called The Rallyist alongside announcer Bae Sung-jae.[36]

Yuri returned to acting in January 2016, playing the female lead in the OCN spy thriller, Local Hero.[37] She also joined the new cast of SBS' reality-documentary show Law of the Jungle for its new season which was filmed in New Caledonia. The first episode of the show aired on July 2, 2016.[38] In July 2016, Yuri starred as the female lead alongside Kim Young-kwang in the web drama Gogh, The Starry Night[39] In August 2016, Yuri released a single titled "Secret" with fellow member Seohyun as part of SM Station.[40]

In January 2017, she starred in the SBS' drama Innocent Defendant and played a lawyer for which she was nominated for an Excellence Award in the Actress in a Monday-Tuesday Drama category at the 2017 SBS Drama Awards.[41]

2018–present: Acting activities and solo debut with The First Scene

[edit]

In 2018, Yuri was cast in the second season of the sitcom, The Sound of Your Heart as the female lead, which premiered its first season on Netflix on October 29.[42][43] In January, she released a collaboration single titled "Always Find You" with DJ Raiden.[44] She was also cast in MBC's upcoming drama Dae Jang Geum Is Watching, which premiered in October.[45]

In August 2018, Yuri was announced to be part of Girls' Generation's second sub-group, Oh!GG, which consisted of the five members who remained under SM Entertainment; the group released their first single, "Lil' Touch", in September.[46]

Yuri released her six-track debut EP, The First Scene, on October 4, 2018, with the lead single "Into You".[47] The album debuted at number two on the Gaon Album Chart and charted at number 10 on Billboard's World Albums chart in its first week with only one day to garner points to enter it.[48][49] Yuri performed "Into You" on South Korea's music shows and her promotions for the album allowed her to top the Brand Reputation rankings for individual girl group members published by the Korean Corporate Reputation Research Institute for the month of October.[50]

Yuri at a fashion event in 2019

Starting in November, Yuri appeared in the Channel A variety show, Makgeolli on the Rooftop, during which she and other celebrities learned how to brew makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine.[51] In January 2019, she was cast in her first stage play, Grandpa Henry and Me ("L'Étudiante et Monsieur Henri"), which is a Korean version of the 2012 French play by Ivan Calbérac.[52]

On August 26, 2020, Yuri joined Bossam: Steal the Fate as the female lead.[53] The drama ended by recording an average viewership of 9.8% nationwide in its last episode, therefore becoming MBN's highest viewership rating for a drama in history.[54][55]

On May 1, 2021, Hyoyeon and Yuri make an appearance on tvN's Amazing Saturday.[56]

In September 2021, Kwon was confirmed to join the independent film Dolphin, making a comeback to the big screen since 2015.[57] Her performance in this film earned her a Best New Actress nomination at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards.[58]

On December 12, 2023 the production team of the movie "Mist" announced the cast lineup including Kwak Sun Young, Girls' Generation's Yuri, Lee Seol, Ki So You, and more.[59] On May 14, 2024 the movie was showcased at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival Market. "Mist", produced by Studio Santa Clause Entertainment is in post-production gearing up for its release in 2024.[60]

Personal life

[edit]

On March 21, 2023, it was revealed that Kwon had undergone varicose vein surgery.[61] On July 26, 2025, Kwon completed her first class as a yoga instructor; a special session of "donation yoga" held to support stray dogs.[62]

Discography

[edit]

Extended plays

[edit]
Title Details Peak chart positions Sales
KOR
[63]
US
World

[64]
The First Scene 2 10

Singles

[edit]
Title Year Peak
positions
Sales Album
KOR
[66]
US
World

[67]
As lead artist
"Always Find You"
(with Raiden)
2018 SM Station Season 2
"Into You" (빠져가) [A] 22 The First Scene
Promotional singles
"Secret"
(with Seohyun)
2016 149 10 SM Station Season 1
Soundtrack appearances
"Kkok" ()
(with Sooyoung)
2008 Working Mom OST
"Bling Star" (블링스타)
(with Masyta Band)
2013 No Breathing OST
"Twinkle Twinkle" (반짝반짝)
(with Masyta Band)
"Time of the Time" (이별 유예) 2021 A Week Delay of Farewell OST
"—" denotes songs that did not chart.

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2007 Attack on the Pin-Up Boys Ballerina Cameo [9]
2012 I AM. – SM Town Live World Tour in Madison Square Garden Herself Biographical film of SM Town [70]
2013 No Breathing Jung-eun [26]
2015 SMTown The Stage Herself Documentary film of SM Town [71]
2024 Dolphin Na-young Independent film [57]
2025 Somebody Kim Min Mystery thriller [72][73]

Television series

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2007–2008 Unstoppable Marriage Kwon Yu-ri [10]
2012 Fashion King Choi An-na [23]
2015 Kill Me, Heal Me Ahn Yo-na Cameo (Episode 20) [74]
2016 Local Hero Bae Jung-yeon [37]
2017 Innocent Defendant Seo Eun-hye [41]
2018 The Sound of Your Heart: Reboot Choi Ae-bong Seasons 1–2 [42]
Dae Jang Geum Is Watching Bok Seung-ah [45]
2020 Break-up Suspension Park Ga-ram [75]
2021 Bossam: Steal the Fate Yi Soo-kyung [76]
Racket Boys Im Seo-hyun Cameo (Episode 16) [77]
2022 Good Job Don Se-ra [78]
2024 Lovely Runner Herself Cameo (Episode 1) [79]
Parole Examiner Lee Ahn Seo-yoon [80]
2025 The Art of Negotiation Cameo [81]

Web series

[edit]
Year Title Role Ref.
2016 Gogh, The Starry Night Go Ho [82]

Television shows

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2008 You Can Fly Special MC with Leeteuk [83]
Kko Kko Tours Single Single: Season 2 Main cast [12]
2009–2010 Invincible Youth Episode 1–32, 42 [15]
2009–2012 Show! Music Core Co-host with Tiffany [13]
2013 Dancing 9: Season 1 Coach with Hyoyeon [25]
2015 Animals Main cast Episode 1–5 [31]
MAPS Host [34]
Our Neighborhood Arts and Physical Education Main cast Swimming – (episode 113–124) [35]
The Rallyist Host [36]
2016 Law of the Jungle Main cast New Caledonia episodes [38]
2018 Kim Je-dong's Talk to You: Season 2 Co-host [84]
Rooftop Makgeolli Main cast [51]
2021 My Teenage Girl Class teacher [85]
2022 Off The Grid Main cast [86]
2023 Business Genius Baeksajang Cast member with Baek Jong-won, Lee Jang-woo and John Park [87]

Web show

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2022–2024 The Zone: Survival Mission Cast member Season 1–3 [88][89]

Hosting

[edit]
Year Title Notes Ref.
2022 8th APAN Star Awards with Jung Il-woo [90]
2024 Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2024 (ASEA) with Ok Taec-yeon [91]

Theater

[edit]
Theater play performances of Kwon Yu-ri
Year Title Role Venue Date Ref.
English Korean
2019 The Student and Monsieur Henri [fr] 앙리할아버지와 나 Constance Piponnier Daehangno Uniplex 1 March 15 to May 12 [92]
2020 Sejong Korean Theater Yeoju November 13 to 14 [93]
2020–2021 Yes24 Stage 1 December 3 to February 14 [94]

Ambassadorship

[edit]
  • Ambassador of Korean Liquor Festival (2019–2022)[95]
  • Ambassador for the Cultural Diplomacy Charity "Beautiful Mind" (2023–present)[96]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Name of the award ceremony, year presented, category, nominee of the award, and the result of the nomination
Award ceremony Year Category Nominee / Work Result Ref.
APAN Star Awards 2022 Popularity Star Award, Actress Bossam: Steal the Fate Nominated [97]
Best Couple Kwon Yu-ri (with Jung Il-woo)
Bossam: Steal the Fate
Nominated
Asia Artist Awards 2021 Best Acting Kwon Yu-ri Won [98]
2022 Best Achievement X HITO Communications Won [99]
Asia Celebrity (Actor) Won
Best Actor Award Won [100]
Baeksang Arts Awards 2013 Most Popular Actress – TV Fashion King Won [101]
2014 Most Popular Actress – Film No Breathing Won [102]
Blue Dragon Film Awards 2024 Best New Actress Dolphin Nominated [58]
Blue Dragon Series Awards 2023 Best Female Entertainer The Zone: Survival Mission Nominated [103]
KBS Entertainment Awards 2010 Best Female MC Invincible Youth Nominated [citation needed]
Korean Arts and Culture Awards 2020 New Media Category Yuri's Winning Recipe Won [104]
Korea Drama Awards 2012 Best New Actress Fashion King Nominated [citation needed]
MBC Entertainment Awards 2011 MC Special Award Show! Music Core (with Tiffany) Won [105]
2018 Best Entertainer for Sitcoms Dae Jang Geum Is Watching Won [106]
Excellence in Music and Talk (Female) Nominated [citation needed]
Best Couple Kwon Yu-ri (with Shin Dong-wook)
in Dae Jang Geum Is Watching
Nominated [citation needed]
2021 Special Award[B] My Teenage Girl Won [107]
Mnet 20's Choice Awards 2011 Hot Campus Girl Kwon Yu-ri Nominated [108][unreliable source?]
SBS Drama Awards 2012 New Star Award Fashion King Won [24]
2017 Excellence Award, Actress in a Monday-Tuesday Drama Innocent Defendant Nominated [109]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Kwon Yu-ri (born December 5, 1989), known professionally as Yuri, is a South Korean singer, actress, and television personality, best recognized as the lead dancer and supporting vocalist of the globally acclaimed girl group Girls' Generation (also known as SNSD). Debuting with Girls' Generation on August 5, 2007, under SM Entertainment with the single "Into the New World," Yuri contributed to the group's rise as one of the most influential acts in K-pop history, achieving massive success with hits like "Gee," "Genie," and "The Boys," which solidified their status as "The Nation's Girl Group" in South Korea and propelled the Hallyu wave internationally. As a key member, she participated in the group's sub-unit Girls' Generation-Oh!GG, releasing the mini-album Lil' Touch in 2018, and renewed her contract with SM Entertainment in 2020 alongside several bandmates, continuing to perform and promote with the group, including their 2022 comeback album Forever 1. Transitioning into solo endeavors, Yuri released her first mini-album, The First Scene, on October 4, 2018, featuring the lead single "Into You," which showcased her growth as a pop artist beyond the group dynamic. In acting, she has appeared in notable dramas such as Fashion King (2012), No Breathing (2013 film), and more recently, Parole Examiner Lee (2024), where she portrayed ace detective Ahn Seo-yoon, earning praise for her versatile performances across genres; in 2025, she starred in the dark thriller film Somebody. Yuri has also hosted variety shows like Show! Music Core and participated in reality programs, including Disney+'s The Zone: Survival Mission (2022), and in 2025, embarked on her third fan meeting tour YURIVERSE across Asia.

Early life and education

Early life

Kwon Yu-ri was born on December 5, 1989, in , , . She grew up in a family that included her parents and an older brother, Kwon Hyuk-jun.

Education

Kwon Yu-ri attended Goyang Jido Elementary School and Jido in her hometown before advancing to Neunggok High School, from which she graduated in 2008. In 2001, at age 12, she participated in the SM Entertainment Youth Best Contest, securing second place in the dancer category, which earned her a spot as a with the agency. Her training regimen lasted approximately five years and 11 months, involving intensive daily sessions focused on , vocals, and performance skills to prepare for her debut. Throughout this period, Yu-ri managed to maintain her schooling alongside the exhaustive trainee schedule, ultimately earning her shortly after her group's debut, demonstrating her dedication to both academic and professional development. She later attended Chung-Ang University, where she majored in Theater and graduated in February 2016.

Career

2007–2010: Girls' Generation debut and early success

Kwon Yu-ri debuted as a member of the South Korean girl group Girls' Generation on August 5, 2007, performing the lead single "Into the New World" during their first stage on SBS's Inkigayo. Managed by SM Entertainment, the nine-member group released its self-titled debut album later that year, marking Yu-ri's entry into the K-pop industry after years of training. Within the group, Yu-ri was positioned as lead dancer, lead rapper, and sub-vocalist, contributing to the ensemble's synchronized choreography and vocal harmonies. The group's early years focused on building momentum through subsequent releases and promotions. In 2009, Girls' Generation achieved breakthrough success with the EP Gee, released on January 5, which featured the titular bubblegum pop track that topped South Korean charts and dominated music programs. The song's catchy melody, schoolgirl-themed , and viral propelled the group to nationwide popularity, selling over 100,000 copies of the EP and playing a pivotal role in the expansion of the Hallyu wave by popularizing synchronized concepts. This era solidified as a leading act, with "Gee" becoming a cultural staple that influenced subsequent trends. Amid the group's rising fame, Yu-ri began early individual activities, including endorsements that earned her the nickname "CF Queen" by 2009 for her appeal in commercials. She featured in campaigns for brands like in 2010, showcasing her versatility beyond group performances. The group's achievements during this period included winning the Best New Female Group award at the 2007 Korean Entertainment Arts Awards, recognizing their rapid ascent as rookies.

2011–2014: Acting debut and group promotions

In 2012, Kwon Yu-ri made her acting debut in the SBS drama series Fashion King, portraying the supporting role of Choi Anna, a stylish and ambitious intern at a fashion company. Her performance earned praise from the production staff for demonstrating a fresh, mature side distinct from her idol image, and she received nominations for the New Star Award at the 5th and the New Star Award at the 2012 . This role marked her transition into acting while balancing her commitments with . Alongside her acting ventures, Yu-ri participated in group variety activities, including the KBS reality show Hello Baby from late 2010 to early 2011, where Girls' Generation collectively cared for a young child named Kyungsan, showcasing their nurturing sides to fans. During this period, the group intensified their Japanese market expansion, releasing singles like "Mr. Taxi" in 2011 and culminating in their second Japanese studio album Girls & Peace on November 28, 2012, which included hits such as "Paparazzi" and "Flower Power." The album sold over 250,000 copies overall, with 116,963 copies in its first week, driven by promotional tours and concerts across Japan, solidifying Girls' Generation's status as a leading act in the region. In 2013, Yu-ri expanded her acting portfolio with her film debut in , a sports drama where she played Jung-eun, an aspiring musician and the romantic interest shared between the two male leads, portrayed by and . To prepare, she diligently practiced guitar to authentically depict her character's passion for music. The film, released in October 2013, received mixed reviews for its predictable plot but was noted for its energetic portrayal of competitive ; Yu-ri's was highlighted for allowing her to exhibit more emotional depth compared to her television work. She also won the Most Popular Actress (Female) award at the for her performance. Throughout 2013 and 2014, Yu-ri engaged in individual variety show appearances to further showcase her charismatic and athletic persona, including as a contestant on Mnet's Dancing 9 in 2013, where she competed in dance challenges and demonstrated her skills as a lead dancer in . These outings helped maintain her visibility amid group promotions and acting projects.

2015–2017: Variety appearances and return to acting

In 2015, Kwon Yu-ri expanded her presence in the entertainment industry through various variety programs, marking a shift toward more diverse individual endeavors alongside her group commitments. She joined the cast of MBC's "," a reality show where celebrities cohabited with animals in a simulated environment, serving as the sole female regular member and showcasing her adaptability in humorous, interactive scenarios. Later that year, she made her hosting debut on SBS's "The Rallyist," a motorsport-themed variety program following rally drivers, where she co-hosted with announcer Bae Sung-jae, highlighting her engaging on-screen charisma and quick wit during races and behind-the-scenes challenges. Yu-ri's variety appearances continued into 2016, further establishing her as a versatile entertainer. She participated in SBS's "Law of the Jungle" in New Caledonia, enduring survival challenges in a remote island setting, where her athleticism, including strong swimming skills, impressed viewers and co-stars during physical tasks. That same year, she guested on JTBC's "Knowing Bros," bringing her playful personality to the classroom-style talk show format, engaging in games and sharing anecdotes from her career that resonated with the audience. These roles allowed her to leverage prior acting experience for smoother transitions into unscripted formats, fostering her growth as a multifaceted performer. Amid these activities, Yu-ri contributed to Girls' Generation's promotions for their 2015 album "Lion Heart" and 2017's "," the latter serving as a for the group's 10th anniversary. However, 2017 also saw significant changes, as announced that three members—Sooyoung, , and Tiffany—would not renew their contracts, leading to an indefinite group hiatus focused on individual pursuits. This period emphasized Yu-ri's personal development, balancing variety work with acting roles in dramas like "Local Hero" (2016) and "Innocent Defendant" (2017), while prioritizing solo opportunities during the group's reduced collective schedule.

2018–2022: Solo music debut and acting expansion

In 2018, Kwon Yu-ri expanded her musical endeavors through the subunit , which consisted of members , Sunny, Hyoyeon, Yuri, and Yoona who remained with . The group debuted on September 5 with the single album Lil' Touch, featuring the title track of the same name, a song that highlighted their synchronized and vocal harmonies. The release marked Oh!GG's effort to maintain group momentum amid individual schedules, achieving significant viewership with its surpassing 10 million views within days. Later that year, on October 4, Kwon released her solo debut The First Scene under , distributed by . The EP included six tracks, with the lead single "Into You" (Korean: "Ppareuga") showcasing her mature vocals and R&B influences, produced by Kenzie. The album debuted at number two on the Gaon Album Chart and sold 38,219 copies in its debut month. For her comedic role as Choi Ae-bong in the series : Reboot, a of the webtoon-based , she won the Best Entertainer for Sitcoms at the 2018 MBC Drama Awards. She also made a special appearance in the culinary Dae Jang Geum Is Watching that year, earning further recognition for her versatile performance. Kwon continued to build her acting portfolio during the , taking on lead roles in period and modern dramas. In 2021, she starred as the resilient Princess Hwain in TV Chosun's Bossam: Steal the Fate, portraying a widowed royal navigating intrigue and romance in the era; the series averaged 4.5% ratings and praised her for emotional depth. Her performance earned her the Best Acting Award (Actress) at the 2021 . In 2022, she led the ENA fantasy rom-com Good Job as Don Se-ra, a with abilities to see ghosts, balancing corporate life and personal growth; the role highlighted her comedic timing and garnered positive reviews for blending humor with elements. For this, she shared the Best Actress award with at the 2022 . Throughout this period, Kwon's solo music received industry nods, including a nomination for Best Female Solo Artist at the 2018 Mnet Asian Music Awards for "Into You," underscoring her growing prominence as a multifaceted entertainer. Her acting expansions during the pandemic-era restrictions emphasized virtual promotions and on-set safety protocols, allowing her to engage fans through online teasers and behind-the-scenes content shared on SM's platforms.

2023–2025: Film roles and fan engagements

In 2023, Kwon Yu-ri continued to expand her portfolio by taking on more challenging roles that distanced her from her idol persona. She starred as Min in the mystery thriller film Somebody (2024), directed by Kim Yeo-jeong and Lee Jeong-chan, where her character navigates a web of solitary deaths and personal turmoil two decades after a traumatic incident involving a swimming instructor and her daughter. The film premiered at the in October 2024 and was released theatrically in on March 12, 2025, receiving praise for its suspenseful narrative and Kwon's layered performance that showcased her versatility beyond glossy roles. Transitioning to television, Kwon took the lead role of An Seo Yun, a determined colleague in the legal drama Parole Examiner Lee (2024), which aired on tvN from November 18 to December 23, 2024, for 12 episodes. In the series, co-starring as the titular parole officer, her character assists in high-stakes decisions on prisoner releases, blending mystery, , and elements to explore themes of justice and redemption. The drama garnered positive reception for its tense plotting and Kwon's portrayal of a resilient professional, marking a significant step in her shift toward genre-driven leads. Amid her acting commitments, Kwon deepened her connection with fans through interactive events in 2025. She announced her third fan meeting tour, titled YURIVERSE, on September 17, 2025, inviting audiences into a personalized "" of performances, games, and Q&A sessions across . The tour launched in on November 1, 2025, followed by stops in on November 15, 2025, and on January 10, 2026, with Kwon personally contributing ideas for diverse event segments to foster intimate fan interactions. Kwon also appeared on the variety program Real Fan Zone 2 in September 2025, serving as a "victory fairy" for the team during live broadcasts, where her energetic presence and sports commentary engaged viewers. During an October 17, 2025, episode of the same show, broadcaster Kim Tae-gyun referenced her past relationship with former player Oh Seung-hwan, leaving Kwon visibly flustered and prompting public backlash for the inappropriate mention of a decade-old personal matter. On the group front, Kwon participated in Girls' Generation's full eight-member reunion meeting in August 2025 to discuss projects for their 20th debut anniversary in 2027, including potential comeback activities and a , signaling ongoing subunit and collective plans amid individual pursuits.

Personal life

Family

Kwon Yu-ri maintains a close relationship with her family, consisting of her parents and older brother, Kwon Hyuk-jun, though she rarely shares details about them publicly to protect their privacy. In interviews, she has emphasized the strong familial bonds that have shaped her , highlighting her admiration for her parents' qualities and her supportive dynamic with her brother. Yu-ri shares a particularly warm bond with her older brother, Kwon Hyuk-jun, whom she has publicly encouraged in his personal pursuits. In , during his appearance on the I Can See Your Voice, where he showcased his singing abilities, Yu-ri sent a heartfelt video message stating, "I hope that your dream will come true on ‘I Can See Your Voice,’ I’ll support you forever!" This gesture underscored their sibling closeness, with no further public collaborations or non-professional joint activities reported. Her parents have provided unwavering support throughout her career, particularly during her challenging trainee years at . Yu-ri's mother was diagnosed with that recurred just before her 2007 debut with , yet she chose not to inform her daughter to avoid adding emotional burden during that pivotal time. In a 2018 interview, Yu-ri described her parents as her greatest idols, praising her mother's optimistic and thoughtful personality and her father's artistic passion for music and art, which profoundly influenced her own interests and resilience. This foundational support from her family continues to inform her approach to balancing professional demands with personal well-being, though she limits disclosures to maintain their privacy.

Relationships

Kwon Yu-ri's most notable public relationship was with player Oh Seung-hwan, which lasted approximately six months in 2015 after they met through a mutual friend. The couple was spotted on dates at restaurants and amusement parks before confirming their romance, but they parted ways amicably in early 2016 due to busy schedules. In October 2025, during an episode of the Fan Zone 2, host Kim Tae-gyun unexpectedly referenced the past relationship, prompting a visibly flustered response from Yu-ri, who noted it occurred "10 years ago" and deemed the mention "rude." Yu-ri has consistently emphasized privacy in her , prioritizing her career over public disclosures about dating. She has addressed and denied several rumors involving colleagues, such as a 2022 speculation about co-star from the drama Good Job, clarifying that they share only a close friendship built through professional collaborations. Earlier setups, including one with BigBang's in 2010 arranged by mutual acquaintances, resulted in platonic friendships rather than romance. Regarding future plans, Yu-ri has shared in interviews that she does not view single life as a preference for herself or her members, countering assumptions about their group dynamic. In a 2020 discussion, she highlighted bandmate Hyoyeon's eagerness for , suggesting an openness to settling down when the timing aligns with personal and professional stability, though she remains focused on her ongoing endeavors as of 2025.

Discography

Extended plays

Kwon Yu-ri made her solo debut with the extended play The First Scene on October 4, 2018, released by SM Entertainment and distributed by IRIVER. The six-track EP explores themes of self-discovery and romance through a blend of dance-pop, R&B, and tropical house elements, marking her shift from group dynamics to individual expression. The tracklist includes the lead single "Into You" (빠져가), produced by Jam Factory's Jihad Rahmouni and Léon Paul Palmen, which features a mid-tempo rhythm and electronic beats; "Illusion" (꿈), an R&B-infused song highlighting her vocal range, composed by Jang Jung-won; "C'est La Vie (That's LIFE!)", an upbeat pop track by ADN; "Butterfly", a soft ballad; "Chapter 2", reflecting introspective lyrics; and "Ending Credit (To be continued)", a cinematic closer. The EP's production involved collaborations with international and domestic talents, including Dutch producers Rock-A-Tune and Palm Trees for "Into You", emphasizing polished, radio-friendly sounds typical of SM's style. Commercially, The First Scene debuted at number two on the Gaon Album Chart for the week of October 7–13, 2018, behind Monsta X's Take.1 Are You There?, and entered the World Albums chart at number ten. Hanteo Chart data recorded approximately 12,500 physical copies sold in the first two weeks, reflecting steady domestic performance amid her established fanbase from . Critics commended the EP for its cohesive production and Yuri's confident delivery, with Allkpop noting the title track's "tropical house elements" as a fresh addition to her discography, though some observed it adhered closely to conventional K-pop formulas without bold risks. The project received positive fan feedback for tracks like "Illusion", praised for its sensual vibe and emotional depth. Yuri has not released any further solo extended plays as of November 2025, focusing instead on acting and group activities.

Singles

Kwon Yu-ri's solo singles encompass collaborative tracks from and lead singles from her debut . Her first solo single, "Secret", was released on August 19, 2016, as a collaboration with fellow member for the hair care campaign under . The upbeat pop track did not enter major digital charts significantly. The music video, directed by , featured the duo in stylish urban settings emphasizing hair flips and glamorous styling, garnering over 11 million views on . It was performed live on programs like Music Bank and , contributing to its promotional success, though no specific awards were won for the single. In 2018, Yu-ri released "Always Find You" on January 26 as a featured artist on DJ Raiden's track, an EDM-infused song with English and Korean . The single's chart performance is not prominently documented. The music video showcased dynamic dance and neon visuals, with live performances at events like . Later that year, "Into You" (빠져가) served as the from her debut EP The First Scene, released on October 4. The R&B-pop track did not enter the Gaon Digital Chart, but peaked at number 52 on the Gaon Mobile Chart, and helped the EP reach number 2 on the Gaon Album Chart and number 10 on the World Albums chart. The music video, filmed in , highlighted Yu-ri's sensual dance moves and emotional delivery, earning praise for its production quality and exceeding 9 million views. The single's promotion included appearances on and The Show. No major awards have been reported for these releases as of November 2025.

Filmography

Films

Kwon Yu-ri made her film debut with a as a ballerina in the comedy Attack on the Pin-Up Boys (2007), a project featuring members of . Her first substantial acting role came in the sports drama (2013), where she portrayed Jung-eun, the childhood friend and romantic interest of the protagonist in a story centered on competitive . In 2023, she starred as Na Yeong in the independent drama , directed by Bae Du-ri, playing a young woman grappling with family pressures and personal solace in a seaside village setting. Yu-ri took on a lead role as Kim Min in the Somebody (2025), depicting a character entangled in themes of disturbance and solitary deaths; the film premiered at the 29th and was released theatrically in March 2025.

Television series

Kwon Yu-ri made her acting debut in television with a supporting role in the 2008 KBS2 Unstoppable Marriage, appearing in multiple episodes as a high school . In 2012, she starred as Choi Anna, a talented navigating the competitive industry, in the SBS drama Fashion King, which ran for 20 episodes. Her portrayal earned her the New Star Award at the 2012 . In 2017, Yu-ri played Na Yeon-hee, a passionate defending an amnesiac , in the MBC thriller Innocent Defendant, spanning 16 episodes. The role showcased her ability to handle intense legal drama and emotional depth. Yu-ri portrayed Park Ga Ram, a woman on a one-week "" to reconsider her , in the 2021 romantic mini-series Probation, A Week, which consisted of 10 episodes broadcast on KakaoTV. This lead role highlighted her in a lighthearted yet heartfelt romance. In 2021, she led as Princess Hwa In (also credited as Soo-kyung), a noblewoman entangled in Joseon-era intrigue and romance, in the Bossam: Steal the Fate, appearing in all 20 episodes on . Yu-ri starred as Ahn Seo-yoon, an ace detective in the violent crimes unit who collaborates with a examiner to apprehend dangerous criminals, in the 2024 tvN series Parole Examiner Lee. The drama aired for 12 episodes from October to December 2024. To prepare for the physically demanding role, she gained 7 kg and underwent intense training. In 2025, she made a special appearance as Song Ji-o in episodes 7 and 8 of the legal drama The Art of Negotiation.

Web series

Kwon Yu-ri made her debut in web dramas with the 2016 Chinese-South Korean production , where she portrayed the lead character Go Ho, a 29-year-old company employee navigating workplace dynamics and romantic entanglements with multiple suitors. The series, consisting of 18 episodes, aired on TV starting July 30, 2016, and blended elements with themes of modern career and love struggles, earning praise for Yu-ri's portrayal of a relatable, multifaceted . In 2018, she starred as Ae-bong in The Sound of Your Heart: Reboot, a 10-episode web series adaptation of the popular webtoon Ma Eum Ui Sori, focusing on comedic family antics and everyday mishaps centered around aspiring webtoonist Jo Seok and his circle. Released on Naver TV from October 1, 2018, the reboot featured Yu-ri in a lively supporting lead role that highlighted her comedic timing alongside co-stars Sung Hoon and Shim Hye-jin, contributing to the series' lighthearted appeal as a digital-exclusive format. Yu-ri's web series roles have emphasized her versatility in shorter-form digital content, transitioning from her earlier television work to platforms like Sohu and Naver TV, though she has not appeared in major web projects since 2018 as of late 2025.

Variety shows

Kwon Yu-ri has made numerous guest and regular appearances on South Korean variety programs, showcasing her comedic timing and adaptability alongside her Girls' Generation bandmates or as a solo entertainer. In 2009–2010, she participated in the first season of KBS Joy's Hello Baby as part of , where the group collectively cared for a nine-month-old baby boy named Cho Kyung-san to simulate motherhood experiences over 22 episodes. The show highlighted the members' nurturing sides through daily activities like feeding and playing, with Yu-ri often taking on playful, energetic roles in group challenges. Yu-ri joined the cast of SBS's for its New Caledonia season in 2016, appearing in episodes 220–224 (five installments) as a main cast member. Filmed in primitive environments, she engaged in survival tasks such as night fishing and hunting, earning praise for her diving skills after displaying her advanced certification. Her participation emphasized physical endurance and teamwork with co-stars like and . On SBS's Running Man, Yu-ri has appeared multiple times, including a solo guest spot in episode 16 (2010), where she competed in name-tag elimination games. She returned with the full lineup in episodes 63–64 (2011), 254 (2015), and 363 (2017), participating in physical races and quizzes that highlighted the group's chemistry. In 2022, she teamed up with bandmate Hyoyeon for episode 602, performing their debut dance routine and engaging in "Enemy Cha-Cha-Cha" challenges. Yu-ri guested on JTBC's Knowing Bros (also known as Ask Us Anything) in episode 49 (2016) alongside MMA fighter Choo Sung-hoon, where she performed a collaborative dance to "Make a Wish" and shared personal anecdotes. She appeared again in episode 258 (2020) with actresses Park So-dam and Chae Soo-bin, discussing her acting career and earning laughs with her witty responses. Additionally, as part of Girls' Generation, she featured in a full-group episode in 2022, reuniting for nostalgic games and stories. In recent years, Yu-ri continued her variety presence on Disney+'s The Zone: Survival Mission starting in 2022, where she navigated escape-room-style challenges with celebrities like Lee Kwang-soo, drawing on her Running Man experience for comedic pairings. In 2025, she appeared on TVING's Real Fan Zone 2 (also titled True Fan Zone 2) in episodes airing September 24 and October 17, passionately cheering for her favorite baseball team, the Hanwha Eagles, during live KBO playoff broadcasts alongside actress Song Sang-eun. The appearances included humorous moments, such as her flustered reaction to mentions of her ex-boyfriend, pitcher Oh Seung-hwan.

Hosting

Kwon Yu-ri began her hosting career prominently in music programs, leveraging her experience as a member to engage audiences with her energetic delivery and quick wit. Her debut as an MC came on MBC's , where she co-hosted alongside bandmate from April 2009 to July 2010, introducing performances and interacting with artists during the group's rising popularity. The duo briefly stepped away due to international promotions but returned in October 2011, resuming duties until January 2012, after which Yuri focused on acting projects; their tenure earned them the MC Special Award at the 2011 for their engaging presence. In 2015, Yuri expanded into reality television hosting with SBS's The Rallyist, Korea's first rally car-themed variety show, where she served as the main host alongside announcer Bae Sung-jae, guiding celebrity contestants through survival missions and motorsport challenges to test their endurance and teamwork. The program highlighted her adaptability, blending her idol charm with commentary on high-stakes activities, and aired from late 2015 into early 2016. Yuri's hosting portfolio grew in the 2020s with prestigious award ceremonies, demonstrating her poise in formal settings. In 2022, she co-hosted the with actor , presenting honors to top television talents and facilitating memorable moments amid a star-studded lineup. She continued this trajectory in 2024 by emceeing the inaugural Asia Star Entertainer Awards alongside 2PM's , celebrating achievements across Asian entertainment industries with a focus on cross-cultural collaborations. These roles underscored her evolution from music show MC to a versatile presenter capable of handling large-scale events.

Other activities

Theater

Kwon Yu-ri made her debut in stage theater with the play The Student and Monsieur Henri (Korean title: Angri Halabojiwa Na, also known as Grandpa Henry and Me), an adaptation of the 2012 French comedy by Ivan Calbérac. In the production, she portrayed Constance, a spirited college student navigating uncertainty about her future who becomes the unexpected tenant of the elderly writer Henry, leading to a transformative mentor-mentee relationship. The play explores themes of generational bonds, personal growth, and artistic inspiration through humorous and touching interactions. Originally cast in January 2019, the production premiered from March 15 to May 12, 2019, at the Daehakro Arts Theater Small Hall in , with Yu-ri in the lead alongside veteran actors and as Henry. Later revivals faced delays due to the , including a limited run on November 13–14, 2020, at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in . The full resumption ran from December 3, 2020, to February 28, 2021, at Yes24 Stage 1 in , where Yu-ri shared the role of Constance in a triple-casting arrangement with and , allowing for varied interpretations of the character's youthful energy and vulnerability. This marked her sole major theater engagement as of 2025, highlighting her transition from screen acting to live performance. The role required intensive preparation, including script analysis and rehearsal with director Song Young-sun to capture Constance's blend of naivety and determination, building on Yu-ri's prior experience in television dramas like Innocent Defendant. Performing live enhanced her stage presence and improvisational skills, as noted in post-production interviews where she discussed the challenges of maintaining energy across multiple shows and the rewarding audience feedback that deepened her appreciation for theater's immediacy. The production was commended for its warm storytelling and strong ensemble chemistry, contributing to sold-out performances and positive critical notes on the younger actresses' fresh portrayals.

Ambassadorship

Kwon Yu-ri has established herself as a prominent figure in brand endorsements within the and industries, leveraging her image as a stylish and approachable celebrity. Beginning in the late 2000s, she featured in commercials for international skincare brand , appearing alongside actor in promotions for the UV Supra D-TOX line in 2010, which highlighted her radiant complexion and contributed to the product's visibility in the Korean market. In 2012, she was selected as the muse for Amorepacific's cosmetics line Mamonde, starring in campaigns that emphasized natural solutions and solidified her appeal to younger consumers seeking accessible skincare routines. These early partnerships marked her as one of Girls' Generation's "CF Queens," a earned through her frequent and successful commercial appearances during the group's peak popularity from to 2010. Her endorsement portfolio expanded to include and accessories, with notable collaborations in the . Yuri served as a model for Casio's Baby-G watch line starting in 2012, participating in making-of videos and fan events, including a 2016 appearance at Lotte to promote spring-summer collections that blended sporty and feminine aesthetics. These roles not only diversified her career beyond but also positioned her as a reliable for brands targeting urban, audiences. In addition to commercial partnerships, Kwon Yu-ri has taken on that reflect her commitment to cultural and social initiatives. From 2019 to 2022, she was appointed ambassador for the Korean Sool Grand Festival (also known as the Korean Liquor Festival), where she promoted traditional Korean alcohols through events and personal messages, helping to elevate the festival's profile over four consecutive years. In 2023, she became the for Beautiful Mind, a charity focused on supporting low-income children and teenagers through and sharing programs, a role she continues to hold as of 2025. Recent ambassadorships from 2023 to 2025 have intersected with her acting endeavors, amplifying her presence. In 2025, she was named promotional ambassador for the 10th Ulsan Ulju World Mountain Festival, attending press conferences to boost awareness of the event's focus on mountain-themed cinema, tying into her growing career. That same year, she was officially appointed ambassador for Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, promoting the island's natural and cultural attractions after personal experiences with retreats there, which complemented her roles in wellness-oriented projects. These positions have reinforced her image as a trendsetter, blending endorsements with to inspire fans on lifestyle, , and cultural appreciation.

Awards and nominations

Music awards

Kwon Yu-ri has earned acclaim in the music industry primarily through her contributions as a member of , with the group securing major accolades during their early career peak. These honors highlight the group's commercial success and influence in . In 2009, at the 24th , received the Digital Daesang for their hit single "Gee," recognizing it as the top digital release of the year, and also won the Digital Bonsang in the same category. The following year, at the 25th in 2010, the group claimed the Disk Daesang (Album of the Year) for their album Oh!, marking a significant milestone as one of the highest honors in Korean music.
YearAwardWorkResultNotes
200924th – Digital Daesang"Gee"WonTop digital song of the year, as part of .
200924th – Digital BonsangGee (mini album)WonRecognition for outstanding digital performance, as part of .
201025th – Disk DaesangOh!WonAlbum of the Year grand prize, as part of ; first girl group to win this category.
Yuri's solo endeavors, including her 2018 debut mini album The First Scene, have not resulted in major wins or nominations to date, though they contributed to her individual artistic growth within the industry. No notable music-related accolades for fan meetings or subunits were recorded from 2023 to 2025.

Acting and other awards

Kwon Yu-ri has received recognition for her debut and subsequent roles in television dramas and films, as well as her contributions to variety shows and hosting. Her early accolades highlighted her transition from idol singer to actress, while later honors acknowledged her versatility in entertainment formats. In 2012, following her acting debut in the SBS drama Fashion King, Yu-ri earned the New Star Award at the , marking her breakthrough in the industry. She was also nominated for Best New Actress at the 5th for the same role, underscoring her promising start. Her performance as Jung-eun in the 2013 film led to the Most Popular Actress (Film) award at the in 2014, reflecting audience appreciation for her portrayal of a competitive swimmer. For her leading role as Court Lady Jo in the 2021 historical drama Bossam: Steal the Fate, Yu-ri won the Best Acting Award (Female) at the , praising her emotional depth in the series. In variety and hosting, Yu-ri shared the MC Special Award at the with Tiffany for their work on Music Core, recognizing their engaging presentation style. She later received a Special Award at the for her overall contributions to entertainment programming that year. At the 2022 Asia Artist Awards, Yu-ri was honored with the Asia Celebrity (Actor) award, along with Best Actor and Best Achievement categories, celebrating her rising prominence in acting across Asia. More recently, her starring role as a mother grappling with loss in the 2023 film Dolphin earned her a nomination for Best New Actress at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards in 2024, highlighting her mature dramatic range. In 2025, she received nominations for Best Actress at the 1st iMBC Awards and the Rising Popular Star Award (Female) at the 2nd Pinggyego Awards, reflecting ongoing acclaim for her screen and public persona.
YearAwardCategoryWorkResult
2011MBC Entertainment AwardsMC Special Award (shared with Tiffany)Music Core (hosting)Won
2012SBS Drama AwardsNew Star AwardFashion KingWon
20125th Korea Drama AwardsBest New ActressFashion KingNominated
201349th Baeksang Arts AwardsMost Popular TV Drama ActressFashion KingNominated
201450th Baeksang Arts AwardsMost Popular Actress (Film)No BreathingWon
2017KBS Drama AwardsExcellence Award, Actress in a Monday-Tuesday DramaInnocent DefendantNominated
2021Asia Artist AwardsBest Acting Award (Female)Bossam: Steal the FateWon
2021MBC Entertainment AwardsSpecial AwardVarious entertainment programsWon
2022Asia Artist AwardsAsia Celebrity (Actor)Overall acting careerWon
2022Asia Artist AwardsBest ActorOverall acting careerWon
2022Asia Artist AwardsBest AchievementOverall acting careerWon
2022SBS Drama AwardsBest Couple (with Jung Il-woo)Bossam: Steal the FateNominated
2023MBC Entertainment AwardsBest Female EntertainerThe Zone: Survival MissionNominated
202445th Blue Dragon Film AwardsBest New ActressDolphinNominated
20251st iMBC AwardsBest ActressOverall careerNominated
20252nd Pinggyego AwardsRising Popular Star Award (Female)Overall careerNominated

References

  1. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kwon_Yuri_at_a_fanmeet_of_Lotte_Department_Store_Casio_in_June_2016_02.jpg
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