If you’ve been following Korean dramas for a while, chances are you’ve come across Esom, an actress who quietly steals the spotlight with her natural, layered performances. She’s not the type to rely on flashy roles, yet somehow, every character she plays feels real and memorable.
Starting her career back in 2008, Esom has evolved into one of the most versatile actresses in the Korean entertainment industry. From modeling and variety shows to critically acclaimed films and dramas, her journey reflects both consistency and growth.
So, if you’re wondering which Korean dramas starring Esom are worth your time, this list brings together six of her standout works, including her latest project, Phantom Lawyer.
1. Phantom Lawyer (2026)
This is easily one of the most intriguing additions to Esom’s filmography. Phantom Lawyer blends legal drama with supernatural elements, something you don’t see every day.
The story follows Sin I-rang, a lawyer who can see ghosts and even gets possessed by them while handling their cases. He teams up with Han Na-hyeon, an elite attorney known for her flawless win record, until she loses to him.
What makes this drama compelling isn’t just the ghostly cases, but the dynamic between the two leads. Esom plays Na-hyeon with a sharp edge, balancing professionalism with subtle vulnerability as she navigates this bizarre world of “otherworldly clients.”
If you’re into unique legal dramas with emotional depth and a touch of dark humor, this one deserves a spot on your watchlist.
2. Black Knight (2023)
Set in a dystopian future where air pollution has devastated the planet, Black Knight presents a world where survival depends on oxygen masks, and hope is scarce.
Esom takes on a supporting yet impactful role in this sci-fi action drama. The story revolves around a legendary delivery driver known as 5-8, who protects refugees while delivering essential supplies.
What stands out here is the scale of the world-building. It’s gritty, intense, and visually striking. Even within a star-studded cast, Esom manages to hold her ground, adding emotional weight to the narrative.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic settings with strong character arcs, this drama is worth diving into.
3. Taxi Driver (2021)
Among all Esom Korean dramas, Taxi Driver is arguably one of the most popular. And for good reason.
The drama centers on a secret organization called Rainbow Taxi, which delivers revenge on behalf of victims failed by the justice system. It’s dark, intense, and deeply satisfying to watch, especially when justice is served in unconventional ways.
Esom plays prosecutor Kang Ha-na, a determined and morally driven character who begins to uncover the truth behind Rainbow Taxi. Her performance adds tension to the story, as she constantly walks the line between law and justice.
This is the kind of drama that keeps you hooked episode after episode.
Esom only played in the first season of Taxi Driver. She was not included in the project for season 2 and Taxi Driver season 3.
4. Save Me Season 2 (2019)
If psychological thrillers are your thing, Save Me Season 2 offers a chilling look into manipulation and blind faith.
Set in a rural village facing economic collapse, the story explores how desperation can make people vulnerable to false prophets. Esom plays a key role in this dark narrative, bringing emotional nuance to a story filled with tension and distrust.
Unlike typical thrillers, this drama leans heavily into psychological conflict rather than action. It’s slow-burning but deeply unsettling, in a good way.
5. The Third Charm (2018)
Switching gears completely, The Third Charm is a romantic drama that feels surprisingly real.
It follows the on-and-off relationship between two people with completely different personalities, On Joon-young, a rigid and structured man, and Lee Young-jae, a free-spirited woman played by Esom.
What makes this drama stand out is its honesty. It doesn’t romanticize relationships but instead shows how timing, growth, and personal struggles can shape love over the years.
Esom shines here, portraying Young-jae with warmth and complexity. It’s one of her most relatable roles to date.
6. Because This Is My First Life (2017)
This slice-of-life drama explores adulthood, relationships, and the meaning of “home.”
While Esom isn’t the main lead, her presence adds depth to the story’s exploration of modern relationships. The drama follows Nam Se-hee, a financially burdened homeowner, and Yoon Ji-ho, a struggling writer who ends up living with him under a contract marriage.
What makes this series special is its quiet storytelling. It reflects real-life struggles, career pressure, societal expectations, and emotional vulnerability, in a way that feels deeply personal.
If you enjoy thoughtful, character-driven dramas, this one is a must-watch.
Esom may not always be the loudest name in the industry, but her work speaks volumes. From intense thrillers like Taxi Driver to heartfelt romances like The Third Charm, she consistently brings authenticity to every role she takes on.
This list of Korean dramas starring Esom shows just how versatile she is, effortlessly moving between genres while maintaining a strong screen presence.
If you’re looking for dramas that offer both strong storytelling and compelling performances, starting with these six titles is a solid choice. And honestly, once you start, it’s hard not to keep going.