The 2000s marked a golden era for Korean dramas and movies, and three remarkable actresses, dubbed K-Drama's Troika "Tae-Hye-Ji," Kim Tae Hee, Song Hye Kyo, and Jun Ji Hyun, stole the hearts of millions with their captivating performances.

These leading ladies left an indelible mark on the industry with their exceptional acting skills and undeniable charisma. In this article, we present a curated selection of the 12 must-watch K-dramas and movies featuring "Tae-Hye-Ji," offering a glimpse into the diverse range of stories and emotions they bring to the screen. Prepare to be captivated by their talent, charm, and the unforgettable characters they portray.

"Stairway of Heaven"

In the iconic melodrama "Stairway to Heaven," Kim Tae Hee delivers a mesmerizing performance that solidified her status as a talented actress. The drama follows the tragic love story of childhood friends Han Jung Suh (played by Choi Ji Woo) and Cha Song Joo (played by Kwon Sang Woo), who are torn apart by fate and reunited years later under different circumstances. Kim Tae Hee portrays the enigmatic and manipulative Han Yoo Ri, who becomes entangled in the lives of the main characters, adding an intriguing layer of complexity to the storyline. Her portrayal of Yoo Ri's conflicted emotions and complex motivations captivated viewers and showcased her versatility as an actress. Kim Tae Hee's exceptional performance in "Stairway to Heaven" earned her the New Star Award at the 2003 SBS Drama Awards, solidifying her talent and establishing her as one of the most promising actresses of her generation.

"Love Story in Harvard"

In the drama "Love Story in Harvard," Kim Tae Hee shines in her portrayal of Lee Soo In, a talented and intelligent Harvard Medical School student. Kim Tae Hee's character, Lee Soo In, stands out with her unwavering determination and impressive academic abilities, and being the center of a love rivalry. She captures the audience's attention with her poised and sophisticated portrayal, perfectly embodying the complexities of her character. Kim Tae Hee's exceptional performance in "Love Story in Harvard" garnered her the Netizen Popularity Award and Top 10 Stars during the 2004 SBS Drama Awards, and the Most Popular Actress (TV) in the prestigious 41st Baeksang Arts Awards, further cementing her reputation as a skilled actress in the industry. 

"The Restless"

In the fantasy-action film "The Restless," she delivers a captivating performance that showcases her versatility as an actress. The film takes viewers on a journey into the world of restless spirits, where two realms collide and battles for power ensue. Kim Tae Hee portrays So Hwa, a tragic character who becomes entangled in the conflict between the worlds of the living and the dead. Her portrayal of So Hwa's internal struggles and emotional depth adds a layer of complexity to the film. Kim Tae Hee's outstanding performance in "The Restless" earned her the Most Popular Actress (Film) Award from the 43rd Baeksang Arts Awards, Best New Actress from the 3rd Pyeongtaek Film Festival, Overseas Popularity Award from the 44th Grand Bell Awards, and the Popular Star Award from the 28th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

"Iris"

"Iris", an intense spy-action drama showed Kim Tae Hee's powerful performance that showcases her range as an actress. The drama revolves around the National Security Service (NSS) agents and their covert missions to protect their country. She portrays Choi Seung Hee, an intelligent and determined NSS agent who is an expert profiler and ranked as Team Leader within the NSS. Her character displays exceptional skills in combat and intelligence gathering, adding depth and intrigue to the series. Her portrayal of Choi Seung Hee garnered critical acclaim and earned her the Excellence Award for Actress in a Mid-length Drama at the 2009 KBS Drama Awards. 

"My Sassy Girl"

In the timeless romantic comedy movie "My Sassy Girl," Jun Ji Hyun delivers a memorable and iconic performance that has solidified her status as a beloved actress. The film follows the quirky and unpredictable journey of a reserved college student who encounters a free-spirited and eccentric girl. Jun Ji Hyun portrays the titular sassy girl, bringing her character to life with remarkable comedic timing and a captivating charm that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. The film was very successful in South Korea, where it was the highest-grossing comedy of all time, and one of the top five highest-grossing films ever at the time. Her portrayal of the spirited and unpredictable girl in "My Sassy Girl" earned her widespread acclaim and numerous accolades, including the Best Actress award at the 2002 Grand Bell Awards and was given the title of the "Nation's First Love".

"Windstruck"

The movie "Windstruck" tells the story of a clumsy police officer who falls in love with a high school teacher after an accidental arrest. Jun Ji Hyun portrays the lead character, Kyung Jin, infusing her with a perfect blend of quirkiness, charm, and vulnerability. Her portrayal of Kyung Jin captures the audience's hearts as she navigates the ups and downs of love and life. Spoiler Alert! It is theorized that the movie serves as a prequel to the earlier movie, "My Sassy Girl", due to to several subtle references between the two films. The theory was also supported by the ending and final scene of "Windstruck" which seems to be bound to the beginning of "My Sassy Girl". 

"The Thieves"

In the thrilling blockbuster heist film "The Thieves," Jun Ji Hyun delivers a captivating performance that showcases her versatility as an actress. The movie revolves around a team of skilled thieves who come together for a high-stakes robbery in Macau. She portrays Yenicall, a talented cat burglar who is part of the group. Her character is witty, agile, and quick-thinking, adding a dynamic energy to the film. "The Thieves" is the tenth highest-grossing film in Korean film history, with over 12.9 million ticket sales.

"Assassination"

Set in 1933 during the Japanese colonial era, the movie, "Assassination" follows a group of resistance fighters tasked with assassinating a high-ranking Japanese official. She portrays Ahn Ok Yun, a sniper and member of the resistance group. Her character is strong, determined, and skilled in combat, bringing a fierce intensity to the film. Jun Ji Hyun's outstanding performance in "Assassination" garnered her the Best Actress award from the 52nd Grand Bell Awards and the 11th Max Movie Awards, and the Favorite Actress award from the  16th Korea World Youth Film Festival.

"Autumn in My Heart"

In the heart-wrenching melodrama "Autumn in My Heart," Song Hye Kyo delivers a captivating performance that showcases her acting prowess. The drama tells the story of two young girls, Eun Suh and Shin Ae, who are switched at birth and raised in different families. As they grow older, their paths cross, leading to a series of emotional entanglements and tragic consequences. Her of Eun Suh is marked by her poignant portrayal of a kind-hearted and selfless young woman who endures numerous trials and sacrifices for the sake of her loved ones. Her performance in "Autumn in My Heart" earned her widespread acclaim and several awards, including the Photogenic Award for Actress and Popularity Award for Actress from the 2000 KBS Drama Awards and the Most Popular Actress (TV) Award from the 2001 Baeksang Arts Awards.

"All In"

"All In" showed her mesmerizing performance that showcases her versatility as an actress. The series follows the lives of two childhood friends, Kim In Ha, Choi Jeong Won and Min Su Yeon, who find themselves caught in a complex web of love, ambition, and revenge. Song Hye Kyo's portrayal of Min Su Yeon is marked by her emotional depth and nuanced acting. As a determined and resilient woman, she navigates through a tumultuous journey filled with hardships and heartbreak. Song Hye Kyo's exceptional performance in "All In" garnered her critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including the Top 10 Stars and Top Excellence Award, Actress during the 2003 SBS Drama Awards.

"Full House"

"Full House" showcased her charm and comedic timing. The drama revolves around Han Ji-eun (played by Song Hye Kyo), an aspiring writer who is tricked by her friends  that she won a free and ended up having her house sold to famous actor Lee Young Jae (played by Rain). Forced to live together, they enter into a fake marriage contract, leading to hilarious and heartwarming situations. Her portrayal of Han Ji Eun is marked by her endearing innocence and lovable quirks, making her a relatable and lovable protagonist, and bagged her the Top Excellence Award, Actress Award and the Popularity Award, Actress during the 2004 KBS Drama Awards. Her chemistry with Rain and her ability to bring out the comedic aspects of her character earned her widespread recognition and popularity, and led them to win the Best Couple Award during the 2004 KBS Drama Awards.

"Hwang Jin Yi"

The drama film "Hwang Jin Yi" tells the story of Hwang Jin Yi, a famous Joseon-era gisaeng, a female entertainer and courtesan who overcomes adversity and societal expectations to pursue her passion for arts and literature. Song Hye Kyo's portrayal of Hwang Jin Yi is marked by her compelling presence, bringing grace, resilience, and vulnerability to the role, immersing viewers in the tumultuous life of the legendary gisaeng. Her outstanding performance in "Hwang Jin Yi" earned her the Best New Actress from the 2007 Korean Film Awards.

The 2000s were a remarkable time for Korean dramas and movies, and the talent of the legendary Troika shone brightly during this era. From intense thrillers to heartwarming rom-coms and tear-jerking melodramas, their performances in these must-watch K-dramas and movies will undoubtedly leave you captivated and craving for more. So grab some popcorn, prepare your emotions, and embark on an unforgettable journey with Tae-Hye-Ji.