Kang Mal-geum

Kang Mal-geum is a South Korean actress who became famous later than most, and her story inspires many people. She was born Kang Soo-hye on 3 January 1979 in Busan, and she acts under the name Kang Mal-geum. On Oxfea, she plays Seol-ah in The Sacred Jewel (2026).

Early life

She studied Korean language and literature at Pusan National University and worked an ordinary job for years before acting. She only made her debut in 2010, in her thirties, starting in theatre and independent film. Her late start gave her acting a real-life depth that audiences can feel at once.

Career and breakthrough

Her breakthrough came with the film Lucky Chan-sil (2019), where she played the lead role of a film producer starting life again. The performance won her best new actress awards at major Korean ceremonies, including the Baeksang Arts Awards. Television viewers then met her in The Good Bad Mother (2023) and in Squid Game, where she played the hero's ex-wife.

Popular roles

Fans name Lucky Chan-sil as her signature work, a warm and funny film about hope. She also stood out in Please Don't Date Him and other dramas in strong supporting roles. In The Sacred Jewel she brings her grounded, human style to a big new story for Oxfea viewers.

Recent work and why fans love them

Kang Mal-geum proves that talent does not expire and that a late start can still lead to the top. Fans love her honesty, her humour and the courage of her life choices. She keeps choosing meaningful projects, and each one adds new respect to her name.