WJSN's Bona (Kim JiYeon) - K-Pop Idol And Leading Actress, A Star That Can Do It All

Through her efforts, WJSN's Bona (Kim JiYeon) continues to showcase her flexibility and talent as a top tier idol-actress.

Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor
4 min to read · Published : Mar 29, 2024

WJSN's Bona (Kim JiYeon) - K-Pop Idol And Leading Actress, A Star That Can Do It All

King Kong by Starship

Previously in Korean entertainment, there were many individuals who solely focused on one line of work. Whether it was being an idol, acting in K-Dramas, or standing on stage as a musical artist, they poured much of their effort into one particular field. However, now it's more common that these stars branch out, challenging themselves and presenting totally different sides to their supportive fans.

WJSN's Bona is but one of these celebrities who is constantly exploring new ventures. Now, netizens are beginning to know the idol-actress by her birth name: Kim JiYeon. She's stood on multiple stages across various genres over the years, showing the passion and perseverance necessary to succeed.

Bona's journey is anything but ordinary, but she's made the best of it every step of the way.

First Steps In The Entertainment Industry

Starship Entertainment

Coming forth, Bona began as a member of WJSN. Their debut with 'MoMoMo' was greatly received, becoming a source of vitamin-like energy for budding UJUNG. In a group of 10+ individuals, it was certainly a challenge for any member to receive an adequate amount of spotlight, but they made it work through various stages and music show performances.

Bona became a shining light that fans loved right from the start. Within such a short time, she mesmerized audiences with her stunning beauty, magical vocals, and radiant stage presence. In spite of WJSN being such a large group, Bona managed to take hold of the spotlight every chance she could, becoming the bias of millions across the globe. Although her career was just starting, a flower road was forming in front of Bona and her groupmates, and they were more than ready to walk along it.

Firm Foundation In The Idol Industry

After such a successful start to their career, the pressure was on Bona and the rest of WJSN to continue their upward trajectory. However, the idol actress continuously broke every expectation, and together with her group, they were able to release such memorable chart-topping hits like 'Save Me, Save You', 'As You Wish', and 'Boogie Up'.

With their resounding success, the girl group was able to travel the world, allowing even more individuals to see Bona's talent up close and in their home country. While many hoped to see her live, fancams were able to accurately show the idol's skills and just how much she improved over the years.

With natural allure and captivating aura, Bona joined the subunit, WJSN THE BLACK. A new side was unlocked for the artist, causing fans to go into a frenzy whenever she took the stage. And with their participation in Mnet's "Queendom 2", there was no doubt that Bona possessed a flexibility that allowed her to don on many different hats, showing her strength as an idol member.

Passion Of A Rising Actress

But the life as an idol isn't the only place where Bona's story lies. Very early on in her music career, she dabbled in the art of acting. While she was first casted in a guest role for "Chicago Typewriter", the star was able to showcase some of her acting potential through the quirky time travel romance, "The Best Hit".

She portrayed admirable promise, carrying the potential to stand among the greats, as long as continued to try and improve. Following shortly afterwards, she continued to land multiple roles through series like "Girls' Generation 1979", "Your House Helper", and "Homemade Love Story". Through every character, you could notice Bona making a conscious effort to refine her craft and become an actress fans could be proud of.

King Kong by Starship

These roles helped to lay down the foundation that Bona stands on today. Even just as a rookie actress, she had the grit and resolve to power through long days on set to complete every project with perfection.

Leading K-Drama Star

Bona then came across a role that would propel her acting career forever in the spotlight. Playing Go YooRim in the internationally popular "Twenty-Five Twenty-One", the entire world fell in love the idol-actress and completely acknowledged her acting prowess. She masterfully piloted the nostalgic feelings of youth and the competitiveness of a professional athlete. The struggles her character faced and the tough decisions she had to make plucked on everyone's heartstrings, making Go YooRim a second female lead K-Drama enthusiasts could not help but love.

She continued on her hot streak, landing the main female lead role in "Joseon Attorney: A Morality". Wearing a hanbok and caring for her people, she swept audiences off their feet over the course of the series. She was again proved that was she leading lady material and would continue to be so in the future.

And with the recent conclusion of thrilling mystery K-Drama, "Pyramid Game", Bona certainly solidified her status as a top acting star. Acting out her character of Sung SooJi, viewers were left speechless as she challenged the status quo and vowed to get rid of the harrowing "Pyramid Game". With this drama, netizens have gotten to meet Bona as Kim JiYeon, amazed at the fact that she is both an incredible actress and radiant idol.

No matter what stage the idol-actress stands on, she's sure to turn heads and have people joyfully chanting her name.

When did you first start following WJSN's Bona/Kim JiYeon? Are you excited for her next challenge?