Kim Sae-ron began her acting career at a young age and quickly gained recognition for her powerful performances in both films and TV dramas. As one of South Korea’s most talented young actresses, she has steadily built a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
With roles in major productions, brand endorsements, and other creative projects, many fans are curious about Kim Sae-ron’s net worth. Let’s take a closer look at how she has built her wealth and what has contributed to her success over the years.
What is Kim Sae-ron’s Net Worth?
Kim Sae-ron was a South Korean actress with an estimated net worth of $2 million. Most of her wealth came from her successful acting career in films, television dramas, and brand endorsements. She had been one of the most sought-after young actresses in South Korea, earning significant income from lead roles and sponsorship deals.
Her most notable film, The Man from Nowhere, became a major box-office success and helped her gain industry recognition. She later starred in projects like Mirror of the Witch and Bloodhounds, further increasing her earnings.
Kim also made money through endorsement deals, working with major brands in South Korea. However, her financial situation became uncertain in recent years due to legal troubles and a decline in work opportunities.
Kim Sae-ron’s Early Life and Education
Kim Sae-ron was born in Seoul on July 31, 2000, in Seoul, South Korea She has two younger sisters, Kim A-ron and Kim Ye-ron, who are also actresses.
Kim went to Miyang Elementary School in Seoul. She graduated from Yang-il Middle School in Ilsan in February 2016. After that, she went to the School of Performing Arts Seoul.
In 2018, Kim got into Chung-Ang University to study Performing Arts and Film Studies.
Kim Sae-ron’s Acting Career and Rise to Fame
Kim Sae-ron started acting in 2009 with the movie A Brand New Life, where she played a young girl named Jin-hee. She got attention at the Cannes Film Festival, becoming the youngest actress invited. Later, she starred in The Man From Nowhere, a top movie in South Korea, playing Jung So-mi, a kidnapped girl. She won awards like Best New Actress at the Korean Film Awards.
In 2011, Kim appeared in the TV show Listen to My Heart, and her role was praised. That same year, she worked in Barbie, a film about adoption, alongside her sister Ah-ron. In 2013, she won Best Young Actress at the MBC Drama Awards for her role in The Queen’s Classroom.
In 2014, Kim’s manager said she had a good eye for scripts, picking great roles. She acted in Manshin: Ten Thousand Spirits, A Girl at My Door, and Hi! School: Love On. Her role in A Girl at My Door was especially praised by critics. She also acted in the thriller Manhole.
From 2015 to 2022, Kim’s career grew. In 2015, she starred in Snowy Road, playing a “comfort woman” in WWII. The film won her Best Actress at the Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival. She then worked in several dramas and films, including To Be Continued and Secret Healer. In 2016, she joined YG Entertainment.
Kim Sae-ron starred in The Villagers 2018 and Leverage 2019. In 2020, she left YG Entertainment and joined Gold Medalist, with fellow actors like Kim Soo-hyun. In 2021, she starred in The Great Shaman Ga Doo-shim. In 2022, she was cast in Trolley but left after a car accident and drunk driving charges. Later that year, she decided not to renew her contract with Gold Medalist.
Kim Sae-ron’s Drunk Driving Incident and Aftermath
In May 2022, Kim Sae-ron caused a car crash while driving drunk in Gangnam, Seoul. She hit transformers, guard rails, and trees, causing a power outage for three hours. This affected 57 places, including shops, which led to damage for merchants.
Kim’s agency, Gold Medalist, released a statement saying she was deeply sorry. They mentioned that Kim was paying for the damages and would take full responsibility.
The next day, Kim posted an apology on Instagram. She admitted to making a big mistake by drinking and driving. She apologized to everyone affected, including shop owners, citizens, and the production team of her show. She promised to resolve the situation with the help of her company and take responsibility for her actions.
Kim Sae-ron later left the TV show Trolley due to the incident. In November 2022, it was reported that all her money had been spent on paying for the damage caused by the crash. She even had to take a part-time job to manage her financial troubles.
In March 2023, the prosecutor in her case asked for a fine of ₩20 million. Kim appealed, saying she was financially struggling, and requested a reduced fine of ₩4 million.
Kim Sae-ron Found Dead at Home in Seoul
On February 16, 2025, Kim Sae-ron’s body was found by her friend at her home in Seongdong District, Seoul. The police were called to the scene and confirmed her death. Right now, an investigation is taking place, but there were no signs of forced entry into the home.
FAQs
What was Kim Sae-ron’s net worth at the time of her passing?
At the height of her career, Kim Sae-ron’s net worth was estimated between $1–2 million. However, by 2025, her financial situation had deteriorated due to legal expenses and debts incurred from the 2022 drunk-driving incident.
What were the main sources of income for Kim Sae-ron?
Kim Sae-ron’s primary income sources included acting roles in films and television, as well as brand endorsements with companies like KEDS X FILA and La Roche-Posay.
How did the 2022 DUI incident affect Kim Sae-ron’s career and finances?
The 2022 drunk-driving incident led to significant public backlash, legal consequences, and financial burdens from legal fees and settlements, adversely impacting her career and reducing her net worth.
Did Kim Sae-ron have any notable financial endorsements?
Yes, throughout her career, Kim Sae-ron collaborated with major brands such as KEDS X FILA and La Roche-Posay, contributing to her income and public profile.
What is Kim Sae-ron’s legacy in the entertainment industry?
Kim Sae-ron is remembered for her impactful performances in films like A Brand New Life and The Man from Nowhere, as well as her roles in television series such as The Queen’s Classroom and Hi! School: Love On.
