Born in South Korea, she began her career as a model before transitioning to acting in the late 1990s. Gaining recognition for her roles in television dramas, she later became acclaimed for her work in films. Her collaboration with director Hong Sang-soo brought her international attention, notably for "The Handmaiden" and "On the Beach at Night Alone," which earned her the Silver Bear for Best Actress. Known for her nuanced performances, she continues to be a prominent figure in Korean cinema.