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Uee
Uee
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Kim Yu-jin (Korean김유진; born April 9, 1988),[1] known professionally as Uee (유이; sometimes romanized as U-ie), is a South Korean singer and actress. She is best known for being a former member of South Korean girl group After School from 2009 to 2017, and has acted in various television dramas including Queen Seondeok (2009), Ojakgyo Family (2011), Jeon Woo-chi (2012), Golden Rainbow (2013), High Society (2015), Hogu's Love (2015), Marriage Contract (2016), and My Only One (2018). On May 31, 2017, Uee left After School and its agency, Pledis Entertainment.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Kim Yu-jin was born April 9, 1988, in Daejeon, South Korea. Her father, Kim Sung-kap [ko], is a retired professional baseball player and former head coach for the South Korean teams, Nexen Heroes[2][3] and SK Wyverns.[4] She has an older sister, Kim Yu-na.[5] Uee attended Guwol Girls' Middle School and Incheon Physical Education High School. While in high school, she was a swimmer and competed in the Korean National Sports Festival.[6] She later graduated from Sungkyunkwan University,[7] with a degree in Performing Arts.

Career

[edit]

2007–2008: Five Girls and career beginnings

[edit]

Uee originally desired to be an actress and went to many auditions, but she debuted as a singer first.[8] In 2007, Uee was a member of the girl group Five Girls (Korean: 오소녀; RR: Osonyeo) under Good Entertainment, which also included Yubin, Jun Hyoseong, Yang Jiwon, and G.NA. The group starred in a reality show on MTV called Diary of Five Girls, but disbanded before their scheduled debut due to Good Entertainment's financial troubles.[9]

Before debuting, she was once a hot topic in South Korea. On May 30, 2008, while watching her father's baseball game in Mok-dong Stadium, she was caught by the camera. The announcer introduced her as the daughter of Coach Kim Sung-kap. The name 'Mok-dong Girl' became number 1 in internet search terms.[10]

In August 2008, after appearing as Yubin's friend in the MBC show Introducing the Star's Friend, she again became popular because of her friendship with the Wonder Girls member and her resemblance to Moon Geun-young.[11] She later joined Pledis Entertainment.

2009–2016: After School and acting career

[edit]

In April 2009, Uee joined the girl group After School with their single "Diva".[12][13] She became known for her "honey thighs" and proved popular with the general public, often topping online search rankings on various Korean websites.[14][15]

In July, she made her acting debut in MBC's historical drama, Queen Seondeok, which was well received and won various awards.[16] She was subsequently cast in SBS's musical drama You're Beautiful, which started airing in October.[17] Later that month, she joined the project group, 4Tomorrow, which consists Han Seung-yeon, Hyuna, and Gain; and released the single "Dugeundugeun Tomorrow" (Korean두근두근 Tomorrow) on October 6, 2009.[18] That same year, she joined the MBC's reality show We Got Married and was paired with Park Jae-jung.[19] Uee ranked eighth on Forbes Korea's list of most hardworking idols in 2009–2010.[20]

Uee had lead roles in two television dramas in 2011. In Birdie Buddy, she played a country girl who strives to become a professional golfer.[21] The drama's director, Yun Sang-ho, praised Uee's "flawless acting", saying, "I believe actors from idol groups such as Uee and Luna improve more quickly because they have so much talent and passion".[22] In Ojakgyo Family, Uee played a university student with a difficult family history.[8] She earned praise for her natural acting and received Best New Actress awards at the Paeksang Arts Awards and KBS Drama Awards.[23][24] Uee released her first solo single, "Sok Sok Sok" (쏙쏙쏙), on June 21, 2011.[25] She also co-hosted the variety show Night After Night.[26]

Uee performing as part of After School in 2012

In January 2012, Uee became a permanent host on the KBS music show, Music Bank, along with Lee Jang-woo. She continued hosting the show until April 2013.[27] From November 2012 to February 2013, she starred as princess Hong Mu-yeon in Jeon Woo-chi, a historical drama set during the Joseon period. When she was cast for the role, Uee expressed her desire to be seen as a serious actor, saying "I want to do away with the 'idol singer-turned-actor' in this piece and really step up my performance".[28] During the shoot, she was praised for her ability to immerse herself in the character and give a detailed performance.[29][30]

Uee was a permanent cast member of SBS' survival variety show Barefooted Friends in 2013.[31] During the show, she performed the song "Hero" at a special concert. The song was produced by Duble Sidekick and co-written by Uee, and subsequently released on the soundtrack album My Story, My Song on August 19.[32][33] She had a lead role in the drama Golden Rainbow,[34] and received an Excellence Award at the 2013 MBC Drama Awards for the role.[35]

In mid-2014, Uee was a member of the survival variety show Law of the Jungle, appearing in the Indian Ocean episodes.[31][36] In April of that year, she told Ilgan Sports she had lost some of her passion for singing and dancing, and plans to further her acting career once she graduates from After School.[37]

In early 2015, Uee starred in tvN's romantic comedy Hogu's Love, playing a national swimming champion.[38] She was then cast in the SBS drama High Society, playing a rich heiress who hides her identity in order to find true love.[39][40][41] In an interview, Uee acknowledged that some viewers were disappointed with her performance, and she had "never been more criticized for poor acting".[42] In October 2015, Uee joined the variety show, Fists of Shaolin Temple, where the cast members received martial arts training.[43]

Uee's next drama, MBC's Marriage Contract, began airing on March 5, 2016. She played single mother with a terminal illness who enters into a contract marriage.[44][45] In November, Uee starred in the MBC drama Night Light where she plays a poor woman who turns her life around with an opportunity.[46]

2017–present: Focus on acting and other works

[edit]

Uee's contract with Pledis Entertainment ended on May 31, 2017, therefore she graduated from After School. In June 2017, she signed with new management agency Yuleum Entertainment.[47] She then starred alongside Kim Jae-joong in KBS's fantasy romance-comedy drama Manhole.[48][49] In 2018, Uee starred in the weekend dramas My Contracted Husband, Mr. Oh together with Kim Kang-woo;[50][51] and My Only One.[52]

In July 2019, it was confirmed that Uee signed an exclusive contract with King Entertainment.[53][54] She was later picked as part of the cast for Cabin Crew Season 2 in 2019. The show features four celebrities challenging to experience the real work of flight attendants, from job interview to training. Season 2 ended early 2020.[55]

On June 12, 2020, Uee appeared as guest on the Korean variety show I Live Alone. The show features single celebrities and their everyday lives, both in and out of their homes.[56][57] At the same month, she also appeared as a guest in the show Dogs Are Incredible along with her dog, Mango. On August 1, she also appeared on another variety show Omniscient Interfering View along with her manager.[58][59] The show observes the lives of celebrities and their managers. Uee also played as Han Ji-won in the 7th episode of SF8 titled Love Virtually alongside Choi Si-won.[60] The episode was aired on September 25, 2020. After her love for spicy foods was shown her recent I Live Alone appearance, she was selected as the official endorser for Samyang Food's 'Fire Chicken Sauce' Series.[61]

On October 23, 2020, Uee hosted the 2020 Live in DMZ Concert along with Super Junior's Leeteuk. The concert was held in Gyeonggi Province to commemorate the 2nd anniversary of the September 2018 Pyongyang Joint Declaration. The concert was broadcast on October 24 via MBC.[62]

Uee currently hosts Glance TV's Last Fit with U-ie, a fitness program showcasing beginner to advanced exercises that can be done at home while under quarantine. The first broadcast started in August via Naver TV.[63][unreliable source?]

On February 8, 2021, it was reported that Uee had cut ties with King Entertainment.[64] Following the report, the agency confirmed that their exclusive contract with the actress has expired.[65][66] On March 29, 2021, it was announced that she had signed an exclusive contract with Lucky Company.[67][68] On June 3, it was announced that Uee will star in the variety program called Spicy Girls along with Sunny, Kim Shin-young, and Choi Yoo-jung.[69] In the same month, it was also reported that she will star in the upcoming drama Ghost Doctor alongside Rain and Kim Bum.[70][71] The drama premiered in January 2022.

Personal life

[edit]

In 2016, it was confirmed by Uee's representatives that she was dating fellow actor Lee Sang-yoon.[72][73] The couple broke up after a year of dating.[74][75]

In July 2017, Uee confirmed that she was dating Law of the Jungle co-star Kangnam.[76][77] This confirmation came after Korean website Dispatch released photos of them on a date in Apgujeong.[78] Uee initially denied the rumors. After 3 months of dating, the couple announced that they had split up.[79][80]

Uee has been a target of hate and criticism since her debut, in particular with her weight and an alleged sponsorship she received from a large company.[81] In 2018, her agency Yuleum Entertainment announced that they will take legal measures against the malicious and defamatory comments towards their talent.[82]

During her I Live Alone appearance, she revealed that rumors surrounding her weight caused her a lot of stress, leading her to eat only one meal a day for eight years.[83][84] Since then she began to focus more on her health while getting back on track with her career.

Philanthropy

[edit]

On April 8, 2022, Uee donated ₩20 million to international relief and development NGOs to fund hygiene products, such as sanity wear kits and sanitary pants coupons, alongside a monthly information brochure for 120 youths entering young women's homes across the country.[85]

Discography

[edit]

Singles

[edit]
Title Year Peak chart positions Album
KOR
[86]
"Sok Sok Sok"
(featuring JR of NU'EST)
2011 64 Non-album single
"Hero"
(featuring Kim Jungah)
2013 Barefooted Friends: My Story, My Song
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released in that region.

Filmography

[edit]

Television series

[edit]
Year Title Role Note
2009 Queen Seondeok young Mishil
You're Beautiful Yoo He-yi
2010 My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho Art major in college cameo (Episode 5)[87]
2011 All My Love for You Kim Yu-jin cameo (Episode 182&210)[88]
Birdie Buddy Sung Mi-soo
Ojakgyo Family Baek Ja-eun
2012 Jeon Woo-chi Princess Hong Mu-yeon
2013 Golden Rainbow Kim Baek-won
2015 Hogu's Love Do Do-hee
High Society Jang Yoon-ha
She Was Pretty Guest for The Most 20th Anniversary cameo (Episode 9)
2016 Marriage Contract Kang Hye-soo
Night Light Lee Se-jin
2017 Manhole Kang Soo-jin
2018 My Contracted Husband, Mr. Oh Han Seung-joo
My Only One Kim Do-ran
2020 SF8 Han Ji-won Episode: "Love Virtually"
2022 Ghost Doctor Jang Se-jin [89]
2023–2024 Live Your Own Life Lee Hyo-sim [90]

Television Shows

[edit]
Year Title Role Note
2009 We Got Married Season 2 Cast member
2010 Night After Night Co-host
2011–2012 Music Bank
2013 Barefooted Friends Cast member
2014 Law of the Jungle in Indian Ocean Episodes 117 – 125
2015 Fists of Shaolin Temple
2017 Law of the Jungle in New Zealand Episodes 265 – 270[91]
2019 Cabin Crew Season 2
2021 Spicy Girls [92]
2022 Kilimanjaro with Yoon Eun-hye, Hyo-jeong, and Son Ho-jun[93]
2024 – 2025 Iron Girls [94]
[95]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Award Category Nominated work Result Ref.
2009 MBC Entertainment Awards Best Newcomer – Female (Variety Show) We Got Married Won [96]
2011 2nd Barbie & Ken Awards Barbie of the Year Won
KBS Drama Awards Best New Actress Ojakgyo Family Won [97]
Best Couple Award with Joo Won Nominated
2012 48th Baeksang Arts Awards Best New Actress (TV) Won [98]
KBS Drama Awards Excellence Award, Actress in a Mid-length Drama Jeon Woo-chi Nominated
Netizen Award, Actress Nominated
Best Couple Award with Cha Tae-hyun Nominated
2013 MBC Drama Awards Excellence Award, Actress in a Special Project Drama Golden Rainbow Won [99]
2015 8th Korea Drama Awards Excellence Award, Actress High Society Nominated
SBS Drama Awards Excellence Award, Actress in a Miniseries Nominated
SBS Entertainment Awards Best Teamwork Award Fists of Shaolin Temple Won
2016 5th APAN Star Awards Excellence Award, Actress in a Miniseries Marriage Contract Nominated
1st Asia Artist Awards Best Celebrity Award, Actress Nominated
29th Grimae Awards Best Actress Won [100]
MBC Drama Awards Grand Prize (Daesang) Nominated
Top Excellence Award, Actress in a Special Project Drama Won
Best Couple Award with Lee Seo-jin Nominated
2018 11th Korea Drama Awards Excellence Award, Actress My Contracted Husband, Mr. Oh Nominated [101]
6th APAN Star Awards Excellence Award, Actress in a Serial Drama Nominated [102]
23rd KCA Consumer Day Awards Best Drama Actor My Only One Won [103]
MBC Drama Awards Top Excellence Award, Actress in a Weekend Special Project My Contracted Husband, Mr. Oh Nominated
Selfish Motive Award – Organic Parody Award with Kim Kang-woo Won
KBS Drama Awards Excellence Award, Actress in a Serial Drama My Only One Won [104]
Netizen Award, Actress Nominated
Best Couple Award with Lee Jang-woo Won
2023 9th APAN Star Awards Top Excellence Award, Actress in a Serial Drama Live Your Own Life Nominated [105]
KBS Drama Awards Top Excellence Award, Actress Won [106]
Popularity Award, Actress Won
Best Couple Award with Ha Jun Won
Excellence Award, Actress in a Serial Drama Nominated [107]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Kim Yu-jin (born April 9, 1988), known professionally as Uee, is a South Korean singer, actress, and model. She debuted as a member of the After School in 2009, contributing vocals, and remained with the group until 2017 to pursue her acting career full-time. Uee made her acting debut in 2009 with a supporting role as the young Mishil in the historical drama Queen Seondeok, and appeared in the romantic comedy series You're Beautiful the same year, but gained widespread recognition for her lead role as the optimistic Lee Soon-shin in the 2013 family drama You're the Best, Lee Soon-shin. Her subsequent notable performances include the feisty Do Do-hee in the 2015 romantic comedy , the ambitious Jang Yoon-ha in the 2015 melodrama High Society, and the resilient Lee Hyo-shim in the 2023–2024 weekend drama , which highlighted themes of family independence and personal growth. In addition to television, Uee has appeared in films such as the 2014 sports drama and the 2022 action-comedy , showcasing her versatility across genres. As of 2025, she continues to be active in the entertainment industry under Lucky Company, with recent endeavors including modeling and appearances.

Early life and education

Early life

Kim Yu-jin, known professionally as Uee, was born on April 9, 1988, in , . She is the younger of two daughters, with an older sister named Kim Yu-na. Uee's family background was shaped by her father, Kim Seong-gap, a former player who competed for the Eagles from 1986 to 1990 before later becoming a coach for teams like the Nexen Heroes and SK Wyverns. She spent her early childhood in , Chungcheongbuk-do. In 1993, the family relocated to Namdong-gu when her father joined the Taepyeongyang Dolphins. This athletic environment influenced her upbringing, though specific details on her personal interests in during school activities are limited in public records. Prior to her entertainment career, Uee auditioned extensively with the aspiration to become an .

Education

Uee completed her at Incheon Physical Education High School, where she specialized in and competed in the Korean National Sports Festival during her high school years. She attended Guwol Girls' Middle School. Her athletic background in highlighted her dedication to physical discipline, which later complemented the demanding schedules of her career. In 2010, Uee enrolled at in the Department of , majoring in and theater. She balanced her rigorous academic coursework with her concurrent promotions as a member of After School, often attending classes and rehearsals in parallel. Uee graduated with a in 2014, demonstrating her ability to manage dual commitments effectively. Her university studies provided essential training in dramatic techniques and character development, laying a strong foundation for her subsequent shift toward full-time after departing from group activities in 2017. The formal education in theater not only honed her performance skills but also influenced her approach to roles, emphasizing emotional depth and stage presence in her post-idol projects.

Career

2007–2008: Five Girls and career beginnings

In 2007, Uee, born Kim Yu-jin, entered the industry as a under Good Entertainment and was selected as one of the five members of the prospective girl group Five Girls. The lineup included Uee alongside Yubin (later of ), , Jun Hyo-seong (later of Secret), and Yang Ji-won (later of ). The group was positioned for a major debut amid the rising popularity of second-generation girl groups, with preparations focusing on a dynamic concept blending vocals, rap, and performance skills. To build anticipation, Five Girls participated in the MTV reality program Diary of Five Girls, which aired in the summer of 2007 and documented their rigorous training regimen, including vocal lessons, dance practice, and group bonding activities. The show provided rare insight into the pre-debut process, showcasing Uee's role as a key vocalist and performer while highlighting the pressures of life, such as long hours and high expectations from the agency. This exposure marked Uee's first public appearance in the industry, though the group never released official music during this phase. Despite the momentum, Five Girls disbanded in late 2007 before their scheduled debut, primarily due to severe financial difficulties at Good Entertainment, which led to the agency's inability to support the project. The collapse left the members to seek new opportunities, with Uee facing uncertainty as a young trainee navigating contract terminations and the competitive landscape of entertainment agencies. This setback underscored the instability many aspiring idols encountered in the mid-2000s scene, where small labels often struggled against larger conglomerates. In 2008, following the disbandment, Uee signed with , transitioning into a new training phase that emphasized skill development for potential group activities. As a solo trainee, she took on minor modeling assignments and small promotional appearances to gain experience, while contending with the demands of intensive rehearsals and auditions. This period built her resilience and versatility, setting the foundation for her eventual reassignment to a debut lineup within the agency.

2009–2016: After School and acting debut

In April 2009, Uee joined After School as its sixth member, debuting with the group's first digital single "" on April 9, which marked her official entry into the industry under . The addition of Uee, positioned as a lead dancer, sub-rapper, , and visual, helped expand the group's dynamic following their initial debut single "AH!" earlier that year. Her inclusion was part of After School's evolving "admission and graduation" concept, allowing for lineup changes to refresh the group's image. During this period, After School achieved significant milestones with releases like the mini-album Because of You in November 2009, featuring the title track that topped Korean music charts and earned the group their first major award at the Asian Music Awards for Best Female Group. The follow-up Bang! in 2011, with its energetic title track, solidified their reputation for powerful choreography and concept-driven performances, while the full-length album Virgin later that year marked their first number-one on the Gaon Album Chart. Uee contributed as a key performer in these promotions, often highlighted for her stage presence and visual appeal, contributing to the group's international expansion, including their debut in 2011 with Japanese versions of earlier hits. In July 2011, Uee participated in After School's sub-unit project , alongside , Jungah, and Nana, releasing the digital single "Roly-Poly in Copacabana" as part of a collaborative effort with to showcase diverse member talents through fan-voted lineups. This sub-unit activity, combined with group promotions, led to awards such as the group winning the Best Dance Performance at the , underscoring After School's growing influence in the industry. Uee's involvement extended to international endeavors, including performances in and limited U.S. promotions, where the group built a niche fanbase for their unique concept. Uee made her acting debut in July 2009, shortly after joining After School, portraying the young Mi-shil in the historical drama Queen Seondeok on MBC, a role that received praise for her natural presence despite her novice status. She followed this with a minor supporting role as Yoo He-yi, a rival idol, in the You're Beautiful on SBS later that year, which aired from October to November and helped introduce her to a broader through its popularity. Balancing idol schedules proved challenging, as Uee navigated overlapping promotions, but she continued with roles in dramas like Birdie Buddy (2011) on cable TV, where she played a golfer, marking her first lead in a series. Her breakthrough came in 2011 with the family drama Ojakgyo Brothers on KBS2, where she portrayed Baek Ja-eun, a spoiled heiress who matures through hardship, earning her the New Star Award at the 2011 and establishing her as a rising actress. This role highlighted her ability to blend comedic timing with emotional depth, contrasting her idol image. Uee's dual career intensified, with After School comebacks like Flashback in 2012 clashing with filming schedules, yet she managed to contribute to group activities while gaining acclaim for subsequent dramas such as Golden Rainbow (2013-2014). By 2016, Uee starred in the fantasy romance on MBC as Kang Hye-soo, a single mother entering a time-slip marriage, which became one of the year's top-rated dramas and won her the Excellence Award at the 2016 MBC Drama Awards. Amid After School's reduced group activities since 2013, Uee announced her intention to prioritize acting, leading to the expiration of her Pledis contract in May 2017 and her graduation from the group after eight years, allowing her to focus solely on her acting career.

2017–present: Acting focus and variety work

Following her departure from After School in May 2017, Uee fully transitioned to , prioritizing dramatic roles over musical activities. In March 2021, she signed an exclusive contract with Lucky Company. That year, she starred as the female lead Kang Soo Jin in the KBS2 "," portraying a resilient high school girl entangled in time-travel escapades with her interest. The series, which aired from August to September 2017, highlighted her comedic timing and emotional versatility in a fantastical narrative. Concurrently, Uee ventured into variety programming with "" in , where she confronted personal challenges like her fear of heights through a daring bungee jump, endearing her further to audiences. In 2018, Uee solidified her acting credentials with back-to-back lead roles in weekend family dramas. She first played Han Seung Joo, an ambitious broadcast producer navigating a contract marriage for career stability, in MBC's "My Husband Oh Jak Doo," which explored themes of independence and unconventional relationships for women in their 30s. The series aired from March to May 2018, allowing Uee to delve into bold, multifaceted character work. She followed this with the role of Kim Do Ran in KBS2's "My Only One," depicting a optimistic young woman whose life unravels upon reuniting with her long-absent father after 28 years. The drama, which ran from September 2018 to March 2019, achieved peak nationwide viewership ratings exceeding 40 percent, underscoring Uee's appeal in heartfelt family-centric stories. Her chemistry with co-star earned them the Best Couple Award at the . After a brief hiatus, Uee returned in 2022 with a supporting yet pivotal role as Jang Se Jin in tvN's medical fantasy "," where she portrayed the ex-girlfriend of a brilliant whose spirit possesses a novice doctor. Airing from January to February 2022, the series allowed her to showcase subtle emotional layers in reunion scenes marked by unresolved past tensions. This project marked her expansion into genre-blended narratives, blending romance with elements. Uee's career peaked with her lead performance in 2023's KBS2 weekend drama "Live Your Own Life," where she embodied Lee Hyo Sim, a dedicated fitness trainer and eldest daughter who finally prioritizes her own well-being after years of family sacrifices. Spanning 51 episodes from September 2023 to March 2024, the series emphasized themes of self-empowerment and familial burdens, earning praise for Uee's nuanced portrayal of quiet resilience and romantic growth amid a love triangle. Her role demonstrated a maturation in dramatic range, moving from lighter romantic leads to deeply empathetic family anchors. In 2025, Uee made her stage debut in the play , an adaptation of the Japanese film, which ran from January 15 to March 23 at the Arts Center's Jayu Small Theater. By 2024, Uee balanced acting with variety endeavors, participating in tvN's "," a reality sports challenge featuring female celebrities training for a involving , , and running. The program, which began in 2024 and continued into 2025, highlighted her athleticism and team spirit alongside actresses like Jin Seo Yun and Seol In A. Through these projects up to late 2025, Uee has reflected in interviews on her evolution from idol supporting roles to commanding leads, crediting her growth to diverse genre explorations that enhance her emotional depth and audience connection.

Personal life

Relationships

Uee's romantic relationships have occasionally drawn significant media attention, though she has been selective in confirming details. In May 2016, her agency confirmed that she was dating actor Lee Sang-yoon after they met through mutual acquaintances, with the relationship beginning earlier that year. The couple parted ways in January 2017, citing diverging schedules as the reason, while maintaining a positive rapport as senior and junior in the industry. Later that year, in July 2017, Uee confirmed a relationship with singer Kangnam, whom she met while filming Law of the Jungle in New Zealand; the romance lasted approximately three months before ending in early September due to busy professional commitments. Following these high-profile breakups, Uee has emphasized privacy in her , with no confirmed romantic relationships reported since 2017. The intense media scrutiny surrounding her dating news, including backlash after an initial denial of the Kangnam rumors that prompted her to deactivate her account temporarily, highlighted the challenges of public relationships in the entertainment industry. This experience appears to have reinforced her preference for discretion, allowing her to prioritize professional endeavors without further personal disclosures. In terms of family ties, Uee has remained closely connected to her relatives as an adult, often supporting them amid financial hardships stemming from her father's past business ventures. She has publicly shared that paying off family debts has been a significant personal achievement, culminating in her 2023 decision to open a cafe in as a means to provide ongoing stability for her loved ones.

Philanthropy

Uee has been actively involved in charitable efforts, particularly focusing on children's welfare and disaster relief. In December 2012, she was appointed as the promotional ambassador for Korea's "Santa Campaign," aimed at supporting around the world by raising awareness and funds for essential aid. This role highlighted her commitment to global child welfare, leveraging her platform as a member of After School to promote the initiative during the holiday season. Following her transition to a more acting-focused career after , Uee continued her philanthropic work with targeted donations addressing women's and girls' health issues. On April 9, 2022, she donated 20 million KRW (approximately $16,300 USD) to World Vision to provide kits, sanitary undergarment coupons, and educational materials on menstrual health to underprivileged teens, helping to combat period poverty and promote hygiene education. This contribution underscored her advocacy for by supporting access to basic reproductive health resources for vulnerable youth. More recently, Uee has extended her efforts to disaster relief. In 2025, she donated 50 million KRW (approximately $34,100 USD) to support victims of the severe wildfires in , contributing to emergency aid and recovery for affected communities. These actions have reinforced her public image as a compassionate in the entertainment industry, inspiring fans to engage in similar causes through her visible and consistent charitable involvement.

Discography

After School era

Uee joined After School in April 2009 as a lead dancer, , and visual, contributing to the group's musical output from her debut single through their final releases before her departure in 2017. Her vocal role emphasized harmonious lines and background support in the group's signature powerful and charismatic style, often highlighted in title tracks that showcased synchronized performances. She also participated in the sub-unit , formed in 2010 with Nana and Raina, releasing upbeat, retro-inspired pop music. Notable works include the mini-album Lipstick (2012) with the title track "Lipstick", the full-length album Sweet Dream (2014) featuring "My Copycat", and singles like "Magic Girl" (2011) and "Shanghai Romance" (2011), where Uee provided vocals and performed choreography emphasizing the subunit's playful concept. Her first major contribution came with the digital single "Diva" in April 2009, where she provided vocals alongside members Kahi, Jungah, JooYeon, Bekah, and Soyoung, helping the track earn Rookie of the Month at the Cyworld Digital Music Awards. The following year, Uee participated in the group's first full-length album New World (2010), delivering vocals on the lead single "Bang!"—a high-energy dance track produced by Brave Brothers—and several B-sides like "Love Agent" and "Super Star," which blended electronic pop with the group's performance-driven concept. This album marked a pivotal expansion for After School, incorporating Uee's input in live stage executions that amplified the group's dynamic choreography. In the sub-unit A.S. Red, formed in 2011 with , Jungah, and Nana for a mature focus, Uee contributed vocals to their debut single "," a soulful track emphasizing emotional depth and vocal layering. The subunit's release highlighted Uee's versatility beyond high-energy dances, providing a contrast to After School's main discography. Later that year, she featured on exclusive B-sides and collaborations within group projects, such as the joint concert album Happy Pledis (2010), where her vocals supported tracks like "" during live renditions. Uee's involvement extended to the Japanese market with the studio album Playgirlz (2012), on which she provided vocals for title tracks including "Infatuation" and remakes like "Diva" (Japanese ver.), adapting the group's sound for international audiences with bilingual elements. She also contributed to the single album Flashback (2012), singing lead and background vocals on the electronic title track that evoked nostalgic themes through its pulsating beats and group harmonies. These efforts were showcased in key live performances, including the Playgirlz Japan Tour (2012), a four-date arena run at venues like Zepp , where Uee performed medleys of hits like "Bang!" and "Flashback" to sold-out crowds, emphasizing the group's evolution in stage presence. Additionally, during the Happy Pledis 2010 concert series, Uee joined in collaborative sets that featured After School's early singles, solidifying her role in the group's foundational live energy. Throughout this era, Uee occasionally provided brief vocal input on OSTs tied to her roles, bridging her group activities with emerging solo pursuits.

Solo work

Uee's solo musical output has been modest, consisting mainly of digital singles, collaborations, and soundtrack contributions that highlight her vocal abilities alongside her burgeoning career. Her early solo efforts leaned toward upbeat pop tracks, reflecting her idol background, while later works incorporated more thematic elements tied to television projects. In 2009, Uee participated in her first significant collaboration with Shinhwa member Junjin and vocalist on "His & Her Situation" (그 남자 그 여자의 사정), a lively pop released as part of Junjin's solo endeavors. The track featured Uee's harmonious chorus vocals and was promoted through a , establishing her as a capable featured early in her career. In 2009, she contributed vocals to Jo Sung Mo's ballad "Please Take Good Care of Her" (그녀를 잘 부탁해) from his seventh album Second Half. Uee's soft, emotive delivery in the featured parts complemented the song's tender narrative of farewell and care, further demonstrating her range in duet formats. Uee's true solo debut came in 2011 with the digital single "Sok Sok Sok" (쏙쏙쏙) featuring JR of , a charming and energetic pop number produced by Shim Hyun Bo. Released on June 21, the song's playful lyrics and catchy melody emphasized quick-witted romance, peaking at number 64 on the Gaon Digital Chart and showcasing her individual charisma beyond group activities. Uee's shift toward soundtrack work became evident in 2013 with "" (히어로), a collaboration featuring After School's Jungah for the SBS variety show Barefoot Friends. Produced by and co-written by Uee, the upbeat anthem was performed live during a special episode and later included on the My Story, My Song. The track's motivational and dynamic production marked a blend of her pop roots with project-specific music. Following her departure from After School in 2017, Uee has not pursued additional solo releases, channeling her energies into while occasionally referencing her musical past in variety appearances. This selective output underscores her evolution from energetic idol pop to more narrative-driven contributions aligned with her dramatic roles.

Filmography

Films

Uee's filmography in feature films is notably sparse, with no theatrical releases to date. This reflects her career emphasis on television dramas, though her occasional roles in TV movies and anthology shorts have showcased her versatility in romantic and dramatic narratives. As of November 2025, Uee has no announced theatrical feature films or additional projects in this medium, underscoring the limited scope of her cinematic work compared to her extensive television portfolio.

Television series

Uee began her acting career in before supporting roles in popular romantic comedies and family dramas, gradually transitioning to lead parts in longer-form narratives. In 2009, Uee debuted in the Queen Seondeok, playing young Mishil in a supporting . Later that year, she appeared in the romantic comedy , playing Yoo He-yi, a member of the fictional and a rival to the within the idol band A.N.JELL. The character's arc involves navigating jealousy and group tensions amid the band's rise to fame, contributing to the series' lighthearted exploration of idol life. Her performance was praised for adding energy to the ensemble, marking a solid entry into acting for the then-rookie idol. She followed with a in 2010's , portraying a college student in episode 5, a minor role that highlighted her in a fantastical romance setting. Uee's early supporting roles included a cameo as Kim Yu-jin in 2011's All My Love for You (episodes 182 and 210), Sung Mi-soo in the golf-themed drama Birdie Buddy, and Baek Ja-eun in the family drama Ojakgyo Brothers, where she played a resilient woman entangled in the Yoon family's generational conflicts and secrets. Her character provides emotional support and in the multi-generational storyline, earning positive feedback for her natural chemistry with the veteran cast. The series, a hit daily drama, helped establish her as a capable in heartfelt narratives. That same year, she took on her first lead role in the sitcom (2011–2012), portraying , a tomboyish high school student navigating family antics and teenage crushes in the chaotic Lee household. Hae-young's arc evolves from impulsive antics to maturing through humorous mishaps, showcasing Uee's comedic timing in the sketch-based format. Critics and viewers commended her for bringing relatability and charm to the role, boosting her popularity in comedic genres. In 2012, Uee appeared in Jeon Woo-chi: The Taoist Wizard as Princess Hong Mu-yeon, a role involving royal intrigue and elements alongside the titular wizard. Her character serves as a romantic interest, displaying grace under pressure in the Joseon-era plot. The performance was noted for her poised portrayal amid the drama's action-heavy sequences. Uee's breakthrough came in 2013 with the family saga Golden Rainbow, where she starred as Kim Baek-won (also known as Jang Ha-bin), the eldest of seven orphans adopted by a Vietnamese woman, enduring poverty, identity struggles, and budding romance. Baek-won's arc traces her journey from a street-smart survivor to a woman reclaiming her heritage and finding love with , emphasizing themes of resilience and family bonds. The role earned her the Excellent Actress award at the , with reviewers highlighting her emotional depth and growth as a leading lady. In 2015, she made a guest cameo in (episode 9). She continued with leading roles in romantic comedies, including , as Do Do-hee, an arrogant national swimming champion who softens through a fake relationship with a naive office worker. Do-hee's transformation from haughty elite to vulnerable partner drives the rom-com's heartwarming plot, and Uee's chemistry with lead Jo Jeong-suk was widely acclaimed for its humor and tenderness. Later that year, in , she played Jang Yoon-ha, a chaebol heiress rebelling against class expectations in a tale of love across social divides. Yoon-ha's arc involves defying family pressures for true affection, with Uee's portrayal praised for capturing the character's fiery independence. In 2016, Uee starred in the business drama Night Light as Seo Yi-na, a ambitious executive navigating corporate power struggles and personal betrayals in the pharmaceutical industry. Yi-na's development from ruthless climber to reflective leader added layers to the ensemble-driven story, receiving commendations for her intense dramatic range. Her second lead of the year was in Marriage Contract, portraying Kang Hye-soo, a hardworking single mother who enters a one-year contract marriage with a chaebol heir after a terminal diagnosis. Hye-soo's arc explores sacrifice, healing, and unexpected love, transforming from a beleaguered parent to an empowered woman. The role garnered her the Best Actress (Special Project) award at the 2016 MBC Drama Awards, with critics lauding her nuanced depiction of motherhood and vulnerability. In 2017, Uee led the romantic comedy as Kang Soo-jin, a woman who falls into a manhole and time-travels, dealing with multiple versions of her love interest. Uee made cameo appearances in 2018's as Kang Kook-hwa in episode 1, a brief role in the body image rom-com. That year, she led the weekend family drama My Husband Oh Jak Doo! as Oh Hyun-soo (Han Seung-joo), a woman with amnesia who rebuilds her life and marriage after a car accident. Hyun-soo's journey from confusion to self-discovery emphasized themes of forgiveness and identity, with Uee's empathetic performance contributing to the series' strong ratings. She followed with another lead in the long-running My Only One (2018–2019), playing Kim Do-ran, a baker confronting family secrets and lost love in a multi-generational tale. Do-ran's arc involves reconciling past traumas for personal growth, earning praise for Uee's warm, relatable portrayal in the 106-episode format. In 2020, she appeared as Han Jae-hyun's ex-wife in the premiere of , adding tension to the historical romance's modern subplot. That year, she starred in the sci-fi anthology 's episode "Love Virtually," directed by Oh Ki-hwan, where she portrayed Han Ji-won (also known as Giselle in the virtual world). The story follows a couple who meet through a virtual and face challenges when transitioning their relationship to reality, blending romance with themes of and post-plastic surgery self-perception. Uee's performance as the introspective lead was commended for its emotional depth, contributing to the episode's exploration of modern love in a tech-driven society. In 2022, Uee joined the medical fantasy Ghost Doctor as Jang Se-jin, a skilled neurosurgeon whose body is possessed by a brilliant but arrogant doctor's spirit. Se-jin's possession arc blends comedy and drama as she adapts to the dual personalities, highlighting ethical dilemmas in ; her role was appreciated for balancing humor with professional intensity. Uee's most recent lead role was in the 2023–2024 weekend drama , portraying Lee Hyo-shim, a devoted fitness trainer and filial daughter who breaks free from her exploitative to pursue her own happiness. Hyo-shim's transformative arc from selfless caregiver to independent woman drives the series' message of self-empowerment, amid romantic entanglements with Kang Tae-ho. The performance was critically acclaimed for its emotional authenticity, helping the show achieve top ratings as a empowering narrative; Uee noted the role's personal resonance in interviews. As of 2025, she has not announced new drama projects following this success. In 2023, Uee starred in the TV special O'PENing: The Reason for Our Break Up (also titled One Reason We Can't Meet), aired on tvN and . Uee starred as Jung Won-young, a divorced woman in her 30s rediscovering romance amid personal baggage and societal expectations. The narrative highlights the complexities of post-divorce , with Uee's portrayal earning praise for its authenticity and relatability in depicting mature emotional growth. The production faced typical challenges of short-form storytelling, such as condensing character arcs, but Uee's chemistry with co-star Kang Sang-jun was a highlight. No specific awards or nominations arose from this role. Throughout her television career, Uee has occasionally contributed OSTs tied to her dramas, such as tracks for , enhancing her characters' emotional moments without overshadowing her acting focus.

Variety shows

Uee began her variety show career during her time with After School, gaining significant attention through guest appearances that highlighted her charisma and dance skills. In 2009, she appeared on SBS's Star King, where her performance of Beyoncé's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" alongside 2PM's became a viral moment, earning her the nickname "Single Ladies Girl" and boosting her individual popularity within the group. This segment showcased her athletic physique and energetic stage presence, leading to increased solo opportunities. The same year, she joined MBC's Season 2 as a regular member, paired with Park Jae-jung in the "Caramel Couple" storyline; their episodes, spanning from October 2009 to March 2010, featured lighthearted missions and chemistry that resonated with viewers, though the pairing ended due to scheduling conflicts. Transitioning to solo activities, Uee took on more prominent roles in variety programming. In 2010, she served as an MC for MBC's Night After Night, a format that allowed her to display her quick wit and hosting abilities alongside veteran comedians. Her tenure helped solidify her transition from idol to entertainer. From 2011 to 2012, she frequently guested on SBS's Running Man, appearing in episodes 34 (2011, with Park Jin-young), 137 (2013, as part of a singers' special), and 249 (2015, where her humorous "mic angel" moments—handing out microphones in exaggerated fashion—became a fan-favorite gag that highlighted her comedic timing and contributed to her "variety sense" reputation). In 2012, she debuted as the main MC for KBS2's Music Bank alongside actor , hosting from January to April; during this period, she navigated high-pressure live broadcasts, including occasional on-air mishaps like mispronouncing group names, which endeared her to audiences for her relatability. In 2013, Uee joined SBS's Barefoot Friends as a regular cast member for its first season, participating in outdoor adventures that emphasized teamwork and physical challenges, further showcasing her active image. In 2014, she appeared in Law of the Jungle in Indian Ocean (episodes 117–125) as a cast member. Later appearances included JTBC's Knowing Bros in episodes 175 (2019, alongside actor Choi Soo-jong, recreating their on-screen father-daughter dynamic from the drama My Only One through playful skits) and another in 2018, where discussions about her career and malicious comments on her appearance garnered empathy and praise for her resilience. These segments often tied briefly to promoting her acting projects but focused on personal anecdotes that humanized her public persona. In 2015, Uee was a cast member on Fists of Shaolin Temple. In 2017, she participated in Law of the Jungle in New Zealand (episodes 265–270). More recently, Uee has embraced fitness and adventure-themed shows, aligning with her health-conscious image. In 2019, she was a cast member on Cabin Crew Season 2. In 2020, she guested on MBC's I Live Alone, revealing her daily routine and home life during the COVID-19 quarantine, which resonated amid global isolation trends. She returned to Running Man sporadically for special episodes. In 2021, she appeared on Spicy Girls as a cast member. In 2022, she was a cast member on Kilimanjaro with Yoon Eun-hye, Hyojung, and Son Ho-jun. Her 2024 appearances included tvN's Iron Girls (Season 1, as a regular member tackling a triathlon) and KBS2's Jungle Bob, an adventure variety program. As of November 2025, she featured in Iron Girls 2 on tvN, continuing her focus on empowering, physical activities with challenges like boxing, alongside Park Ju-hyun, Seol In-ah, and Geum Sae-rok. These roles have notably enhanced her popularity among younger viewers, emphasizing empowerment over scripted drama promotions.

Awards and nominations

Awards

Uee has garnered a series of prestigious awards recognizing her dual career as a singer in the After School and as an actress in South Korean television dramas. With at least 10 verified wins across music, , and popularity categories, these honors highlight her versatility and growing prominence, particularly in long-form family dramas where her natural performances have earned critical acclaim. Her early accolades marked her entry into , while later wins reflect sustained excellence and audience appeal.

Music Awards (as part of After School)

Uee's contributions to After School helped the group secure the Rookie of the Month award at the Digital Music Awards in April 2009 for the single "," which showcased the group's concept-driven style and propelled their debut success. This recognition, attributed to the full lineup including Uee, established After School as a notable second-generation act focused on performance evolution.

Acting Awards

Uee's acting breakthrough came with her debut roles, leading to rookie honors. In 2011, she won the Best New Actress award at the for her role as in the family drama Ojakgyo Brothers, praised for her portrayal of a resilient young woman navigating family dynamics. The following year, she received the Best New Actress (TV) award at the 48th for the same role, affirming her rapid rise in the industry. In 2013, she won the Excellence Award, Actress in a Special Project Drama at the MBC Drama Awards for her portrayal of the resilient Kim Baek-won in Golden Rainbow. Her career peaked with more substantial roles, earning the Female High Excellence Award in the Special Production Drama category at the 2016 MBC Drama Awards for her lead performance as a terminally ill woman in the fantasy romance , where her emotional depth was highlighted by critics. In 2018, she secured the Excellence Award in a Long-Length Drama at the for My Only One, recognizing her consistent delivery in ensemble family narratives. Most recently, in 2023, Uee won the Top Excellence Award (Actress) at the for her starring role as Hyo-sim in , a hit series that drew over 20% ratings and celebrated her mature depiction of personal independence.

Popularity and Couple Awards

Uee's charm has translated into fan-voted honors, including the Best Couple Award (with ) at the 2023 for , alongside a Popularity Award, underscoring her enduring appeal in viewer polls. These awards, often based on votes, emphasize her status as a beloved figure in Korean entertainment, with alone contributing to her highest visibility in recent years. In 2025, she received the Excellence Award (Female) at the 2024 for her appearance on the Jungle Bob.

Nominations

Uee's early career with After School garnered several music award nominations, reflecting the group's rising profile in the competitive landscape. In 2009, After School was nominated for Best New Female Artist at the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) for their debut track "," though the award was ultimately presented to , underscoring the intense debut-year rivalry among female acts. This nomination marked an early acknowledgment of Uee's contributions to the group's dynamic performances and choreography. She was also nominated for the Best Couple Award (with ) at the 2011 for Ojakgyo Brothers, reflecting audience investment in her on-screen chemistry. Transitioning to acting, Uee received nominations that highlighted her growing versatility, often in categories emphasizing supporting or roles amid strong competition. In recent years, Uee's nominations have increasingly celebrated her range across genres, from to slice-of-life, demonstrating her evolution from idol-actor to respected performer. At the 2024 , she was nominated for Top Excellence Award, Actress in a for her lead role as Yoon Lan-nyeo in "Live Your Own Life," a character that showcased her emotional depth in a 200-episode saga; however, the award went to Geum Sae-rok for "Iron Family," reflecting the high bar set by long-running serials. These instances of near-misses illustrate Uee's consistent industry acclaim for her adaptability and screen presence, even as she navigates a field dominated by powerhouse leads, signaling a trajectory of sustained recognition rather than isolated victories.

References

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