# Seo Yi-sook

Seo Yi-sook (Korean: 서이숙; born 6 December 1966) is a South Korean theatre, television and movie actress. As supporting actress, Seo is known for her supporting role in drama Empress Ki (2013–2014), The Rebel (2017), Hotel del Luna (2019), The World of the Married (2020), and Start-Up (2020); and also feature film The Mayor (2017).
In 1986, Seo started her career as an actress by joining a local theatre company in Suwon. She won Best New Actor Award at the 1986 Korea Theatre Festival. Followed by winning Acting Award the 6th National Theatre Festival in 1987. Seo joined Michu Theatre Company in 1989, and her debut work as member was Shin Yi Gukgi (1989). A year later Seo debuted as musical actress in Make a Hero (1990).
She won many prestigious awards such as 2003 Gu Hi-seo Theatre Awards Actor of the Year and Expected Actor, 40th Dong-A Theatre Awards Best Acting Award (2004) and The 30th Lee Hae-rang Theater Award (2020).

## Early life and education

Seo was born 6 December 1966, in Yeoncheon-gun, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. She was the eldest of two siblings. Tragically, Seo's father died from cirrhosis when she was in middle school. Furthermore, her younger brother also died in an accident during her early 20s. These heartbreaking events had a profound impact on Seo and her mother, making it difficult for them to watch dramas due to the fear of shedding tears over sad scenes. To this day, Seo's mother, who still resides in their hometown, has never remarried.
During her time at Yeoncheon Jeongok High School, Seo was a talented badminton player. However, her dream of pursuing a career in athletics came to an end after she failed in the first round of the national badminton selection. Given the challenging circumstances her family faced, Seo made the decision to forgo college and instead joined the Yeoncheon Rural Development Administration, working as a social and physical badminton coach.
A turning point in Seo's life occurred when she attended a performance of the play Agnes of God at the Suwon Arts Theater. As a rural girl, the experience was a significant culture shock for her. Nevertheless, it ignited a passion within her, and at the age of nineteen, she made the life-changing decision to pursue a career in acting. She applied to become a member of a local theater troupe at the Suwon Arts Theater, setting herself on the path to become an actress.

## Career
### Early debut years as member of Michu Trope

In 1986, Seo embarked on her acting career by joining a local theater company in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province. Her exceptional speaking skills quickly garnered recognition, leading to her participation in several theatrical productions. She received the prestigious Best New Actor Award at the 1986 Korea Theatre Festival, marking a significant milestone in her early career.
In 1987, Seo was selected for the lead role of Yeok-hwa in the play Pakkoji. Produced by Anyang Arts Theatre, with Lee Jae-hyeon as the producer and Lee Jae-in as the director, the play represented GyeongGi-Do in the 6th National Theatre Festival. The festival, which took place from May 20 to June 1, 1987, at the Daejeon Civic Centre in Chungcheongnam-do, brought together representative troupes from 13 cities and provinces. "Pakkoji" received the grand prize, known as the President's Award. In the individual category, director Lee Jae-in won the directing award, and Seo Yi-sook was honored with the Acting Award. The acclaimed production of "Pakkoji" was invited to the 12th Seoul International Theatre Festival in 1988 and performed at the Arts Centre Grand Theatre on August 19–20 of that year.
In 1989, Seo moved to Seoul and auditioned to become a member of Theatre Company Michu. Following three months of training, she made her debut in the Shin Yi Gukgi (1989). A year later, she ventured into the realm of musical theater, making her debut as a musical actress in "Make a Hero" in 1990. Seo dedicated over a decade to laying the groundwork, learning, and training in traditional performing arts, taking on numerous minor roles in Madangnori of Michu.
   “Her pronunciation, sensibility, and attitude toward people are all honest and sincere actress.”
After working for approximately a decade, Seo decided to further her education and enrolled in the School of Korean Music of Chung-Ang University Undergraduate School. Although she focused on acting as her major, but her obtained bachelor's degree was in Korean Music, Following her department's name.
Seo faced challenges in securing lead roles due to her tall stature. However, her breakthrough in the acting career came with the play Heo Sam-gwan Blood (2003). Portraying the character of Heo Ok-ran, the wife of Heo Sam-gwan, Seo landed her first lead role after years of participating in Michu productions. Her exceptional performance in this role earned her accolades at the Hiseo Theatre Awards on December 20, 2003, where she was honored with the titles of 'Actress of the Year' and 'Expected Actress.' Additionally, she received the Best Acting Award for the same work at the 40th Dong-A Theatre Awards, which took place on February 13, 2004, at the Dong-A Media Center in Sejong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul.

### Breaking the troupe barrier

Following her notable achievement in 2004, Seo received an offer in 2005 to portray the role of Hester Swain, the female lead in the play Cat Swamp, produced by the Physic Theater Company. This marked the first time in 10 years that Seo, who was a member of Michu, performed on a stage other than a Michu production. Directed by Han Tae-sook, play Cat Swamp is a renowned work by the Irish-born playwright Marina Carr. The play was staged from November 1 to 13, 2005, at the Seoul Daehangno Arko Arts Theater's Grand Theater (formerly known as the Arts Center Arts Theater).
While working as a theater actress, Seo also pursued her studies at the Graduate School of Chung-Ang University's School of Korean Music. In 2005, she began her academic journey, and three years later, in 2008, Seo successfully obtained her master's degree in Korean Music. Her thesis focused on research in Madangnori. Furthermore, she took on the role of a part-time professor, teaching acting classes at her alma mater. Notably, one of her students was trot singer Song Ga-in.
In 2006, Seo had the opportunity to act in Michael Frayn's 1982 Play Noises Off. This popular work premiered in the UK in 1982 and has been performed in 32 countries. It is a comedy that garnered significant attention, leading to a Hollywood movie adaptation following a successful Broadway run. The Korean performance of "Noises Off" took place at Dongsoong Hall, Dongsoong Art Center, Daehak-ro in May 2006. Seo Yi-suk, who portrayed the character of Cracket, received praise for her natural portrayal in the play. Her unique husky voice added to the charm of her performance, and she skillfully led the flow of the play.
Seo collaborated once again with Han Tae-suk in the play Iron. The play is an intense psychological drama by Rona Munro translated by Sung Soo-jeong. In the play, Seo portrayed a female prison guard who develops an affectionate bond with Jae-yi (played by Yoon So-jung), a female prisoner serving a 15-year sentence for murdering her husband. As a fellow woman who has experienced abuse at the hands of men, the guard empathizes with Jae-yi. However, when Jae-yi takes advantage of this affection and smuggles drugs, the guard's empathy turns into disgust. Additionally, there is a hint of jealousy towards the arrival of Jae-yi's daughter, Yoo-jin. Seo's portrayal of the gender-neutral character adds a refreshing catharsis to the play.
In 2007, Seo returned with a new work by playwright Bae Sam-shik titled "Yeolha Diary," which had previously created her turning point project, "Heosam-gwan Selling Blood." The play was an adaptation of Yeonam Park Ji-won's work of the same title. Seo Yi-suk appeared as the strange Yeon-am, a peculiar beast with the characteristics of a horse, a donkey, a mule, and a dog. She began narrating strange stories in a village, leading to chaos and changes, fueling human curiosity and desire for the unusual. The production was directed by Son Jin-chaek, known for his works dealing with weighty and serious themes, and it took place on the stage of Seoul Arts Center's Towol Theater from March 10 to 25. Seo gained acclaim for her remarkable performances.
In April 2007, Seo took on the role of the third-rate singer Ju Hyeon-mi in the play "Walking Alone on the Yeongdong Bridge as Night Rain Falls." The play, which was inspired by the songs of Ju Hyeon-mi, was written by Choi Chi-eon and directed by Kim Dong-hyun. It satirized the dark era of military dictatorship by featuring a protagonist who was a third-rate poet undergoing censorship of their identity. The play was performed by the theater company Party at the Daehak-ro Information Small Theater starting from April 25.
Seo Yi-sook showcased her talent as Clytemnestra in the 2007 production of Orestes. The play, adapted by Go Young-beom and directed by Lee Seong-yeol, delved into the intricacies of human nature. Alongside Seo, Park Ji-il portrayed the character of Orestes. The performance of Orestes graced the main theater of the Arko Arts Theater from November 23 to December 2.
In 2008, Seo was cast as role Helen Damson from the play The Gift of the Gorgon by playwright Peter Shaffer. Seo played opposite actor Jung Dong-hwan, who returned to the stage as Edward Damson after he appeared at the 2003 premiere; and Park Yoon-hee who was cast as Philip. This performance was produced by Experimental theater company. Directed by Koo Tae-hwan, the play The Gift of the Gorgon was held at the Namsan Drama Center on November 18 to 23 2008. This project was the most memorable in Seo's career. She received standing ovation from the audience on her last performance. In August 2009 Seo performed encore the play The Gift of the Gorgon at the Arko Arts Theater in Daehangno, Seoul.
In 2009, director Park Geun-hyung of Theater Company Alleyway watched "The Gift of Gorgon" and visited Seo in her dressing room to propose that they work together on Chekhov's "The Seagull." When asked why she accepted the offer, Seo said, "I was planning to take a break, but I couldn't resist the opportunity to participate in a small theater production after a long time. I was also very interested in Park Geun-hyung's working style."
In the play, Seo portrays the character of Arkadina, who experiences the beginning and end of tragedy. Her son, Kostya (played by Kim Ju-wan), falls in love with Nina (played by Kim Young-nam and Jung Jin-ah), who is both Arkadina's lover and a renowned novelist named Trigorin (played by Kim Young-pil). Eventually, as Nina meets her downfall, she tragically takes her own life. Throughout the performance, Arkadina, at the center of tension, can only witness her son's demise. Seo Yi-suk's portrayal of Arkadina, characterized by a composed face and occasional outbursts of emotion through her theatrical and grandiose voice, adds depth to the intimate theater experience. As a highly respected mid-career actor, she shoulders the responsibility of upholding the theater industry's reputation.
In 2009, Seo joined play The Women of Picasso by Synsi Musical Company as the opening work of the 30th 2009 Seoul Theater Festival at Towol Theater, Seoul Arts Center from April 16 to 26, 2009. Korean premiere was directed by British director Paul Garrington who directed The Women of Picasso at the 2000 Edinburgh Festival. The original was premiered at the National Theater in London in July 2000, based on a play by Brian McAvera. Afterwards, at the 2000 Edinburgh Festival, each woman's story was performed independently in different theaters by different directors and received favorable reviews. In addition, it has been translated into several languages and performed in European countries such as Italy, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands.
   “I am looking forward to a delicate acting transformation suitable for the small theater stage, away from the intelligent and elegant acting of the large theatre.”
Seo Yi-suk takes on the role of the 'eldest daughter' in the play "Take Care of Mom." The play has been revitalized through the creative vision of writer Go Yeon-ok, known for her insightful understanding of the human psyche, and director Ko Seok-man, who has honed his directing skills in the theater industry for over 30 years. Seo shares the stage with Jeong Hye-sun, who portrays the character of the mother. Additionally, the cast includes Shim Yang-hong as the husband, Gil Yong-woo as the eldest son, Lee Hye-won as the second daughter, Baek Baek-hee as the grandmother, and Park Woong as Lee Eun-gyu.
In 2011, Seo was selected as the 12th winner by the Kim Dong-hoon Theater Awards Steering Committee led by Chairman Yoo Min-Young. Award was given due Seo excellent acting skills in 'Oedipus' and 'Memories of Catfish' in 2011, and her previous works The Seagull, The Tempest, The Gift of the Gorgon, The Women of Picasso, and Yelha Diary.
The Heretics is a work by British author Richard Bean and is introduced for the first time in Korea. Seo, played the role of Diane Cassel, a scientist and professor of high climate department, the main character.

### Debut in television

Seo made her first television appearance in early 2010, assuming the role of Queen Myeong-seong in the SBS drama Jejungwon. Queen Myeong-seong, also known by her real name Min Ja-young, was an influential figure in the Joseon Dynasty. In the series, she formed a close bond with Allen, who saved the life of her niece Min Young-ik, and later developed a friendship with Horton. In early 2011, Seo took on the role of the beggar's wife in MBC historical drama The Duo. Since then the broadcasting industry began to pay attention to Seo, leading to numerous offers.
In the latter half of 2011, Seo had to withdraw from four scheduled plays due to health reasons. As a result, she decided to shift her focus towards television projects. During this time, JTBC, a newly launched cable channel, approached her with the role of Park Sang-gung (Court Lady Park) in the weekend historical drama Insu, the Queen Mother (2011). Subsequently, she appeared in the drama Feast of the Gods (2012), portraying the character Noh Young-shim, who served as Arirang's assistant chef responsible for Chanmo (kimchi, a basic side dish). Noh Young-shim develops romantic feelings for the chef Lim Do-sik (Park Sang-myeon) of Arirang. The drama revolves around the intense rivalry between Go Jun-young (Sung Yu-ri) and Ha In-joo (Seo Hyun-jin) as they compete for the position of master chef in Arirang, a renowned traditional Korean restaurant known for its exceptional cuisine.

### Theatre comeback and first award in television

In 2012, Seo was finally in good health and able to make a return to the theater. Her first stage appearance was in the play I Miss Your Parents, which was adapted from Japanese theatrical play Oya no Kao ga Mitai by Seigo Hatasawa, a Japanese playwright known for addressing the issue of school violence. The Korean adaptation was directed by Kim Gwang-bo, renowned for his works with strong social messages. The production featured a stellar cast of theater stars, including Son Sook, Park Yong-su, Lee Dae-yeon, Park Ji-il, Gil Hae-yeon, Jang Young-nam, and Seo Eun-kyung. Seo, who was double-cast with Gil Hae-yeon, portrayed the role of a mother who intimidates the victim's family by leveraging her position as the head of the school administration.
In 2013, Seo appeared as "Seo Sang-gung" in the historical television series Empress Ki. "Seo Sang-gung," also known as Court Lady Seo, served as Empress Tanashiri's right-hand servant (played by Baek Jin-hee). The following year, she took on the role of Kang Seok-soon, the chief of Gangnam Police Station, in the 2014 SBS drama You're All Surrounded. The drama was written by Lee Jeong-sun and directed by Yoo In-sik.
Amidst her busy schedule in television, which included weekend dramas, daily dramas, and mini-series, Seo continued to work on stage in the play Romeo and Juliet as part of the commemoration for the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death. Park Jung-Min and Moon Geun-Young, two talented actors in Chungmuro, took on the roles of Romeo and Juliet respectively, while Seo, along with Son Byung-ho, who portrayed the role of Juliet's nanny as double cast, shared the responsibility and weight of the entire production.
In 2015, Seo Yi-sook, portrayed Na Hyun-ae in the KBS Wednesday-Thursday drama Unkind Lady. Her character was a snobbish villain who bullied Chae Shi-ra (played by Kim Hyun-sook) in the series due to her lack of educational opportunities.
In 2017, Seo joined cast of detective drama Bad Thief, Good Thief as Hong Mi-ae. That same year, she returned to the historical drama genre, portraying Lady Jo, the wife of Jo Cham-bong, in The Rebel. Initially, her role was meant to be minor, with appearances limited to episodes 1 to 5. However, her exceptional acting skills caught the director's attention, leading to an expansion of her screen time. Lady Jo's character extended throughout the entire series, appearing until the final episode, episode 30. Seo's remarkable performance did not go unnoticed. At the 2017 MBC Drama Awards held on December 30, 2017, she was honored with the Golden Acting Award in the Monday-Tuesday Drama category. This recognition served as a testament to her talent as television actress.
In that same year, Seo took on a role in the film Special Citizen as the wife of the lead character, Mayor of Seoul Byun Jong-goo (played by Choi Min-shik). Choi himself considered the scene with Seo as the most memorable in the film. The scene depicted Byun Jong-goo selling his daughter's name to cover up his crime, and his wife, aware of the situation, confronts and criticizes him. As the conflict between the characters escalated, the emotional intensity of the acting became crucial. Choi Min-shik advised Seo to channel her character's resentment, stating, "When I said, 'I'll hit you like a bell in a chapel,' I felt like I was really going to die. I was hit once with full force, and if I were hit again, my face would change." The scene was successfully filmed and included in the final cut of the film without any changes.
In 2018, Seo starred in KBS musical drama Beautiful Story of Joseon. Directed by Kim Dae-hyun, this musical drama depicts the story of young people who wanted find their dreams against the backdrop of the first beauty contest in the Joseon Dynasty. In this two episodes drama, written by Kyung Min-seon, Seo acted alongside Pentagon Yeo-won, Kim Na-ni, Bae Yoon-kyung, and Jung Eun-Pyo. Her next role was Madam Ra in drama Mother. Followed by Kwon Young-sil in My Secret Terrius.

### Highest recognition in Theater career and recent works

   “She is an actress who keeps her character in her play for a long time and then takes it out without showing her technique or revealing it.”
In 2018, Seo had the opportunity to collaborate once again with director Han Tae-sook in the Korean adaptation of Electra, a renowned Greek tragedy. The adaptation was written by Ko Yeon-ok, often recognized as "the alchemist of crime drama," who crafted a tense and gripping variation of Electra's revenge story. In this rendition, Electra undergoes a transformation, becoming a guerrilla warrior, while a bunker serves as the backdrop for the play. Seo and Jang Young-nam, both returning to the theatrical stage after a hiatus, were cast in the roles of Electra and Clytemnestra, respectively. These two central characters were instrumental in driving the conflicts within the play. Their performances were filled with charisma, captivating audiences at the LG Art Center from April 26 to May 5, 2018.
In 2019, Seo and Woo Mi-hwa were double-cast as Nora Helmer, while Son Jong-hak and Park Ho-san were double-cast as Torwald in the Korean adaptation of the play A Doll's House Part 2 by American playwright Lucas Hnath. Originally released in 2017, the play serves as a "sequel" to Henrik Ibsen's masterpiece A Doll's House which premiered in December 1879. Ibsen's play tells the story of Nora Helmer, the wife of Torvald and mother of three, who ultimately leaves her family behind, challenging the societal norms of a 19th-century wife. In A Doll's House Part 2, set in 1894, Nora Helmer returns after 15 years as a successful writer to file divorce.
In 2019, Seo took on the lead role in the monologue play titled "Lady Macbeth's Wardrobe," which was performed on November 6 and 7 at Donhwamun Traditional Music Hall in Seoul. This production is a reinterpretation of the classic Shakespearean play "Macbeth," focusing specifically on the story of Lady Macbeth in a Korean context. Through the presence of traditional Korean attire known as 'Hanbok' in her wardrobe, the memories of Lady Macbeth's past are invoked and brought to the present.
In her standout role in 2019, Seo showcased her exceptional talent by starring in the Hong Sisters' fantasy drama series Hotel del Luna. Portraying the six sister Gods known as Ma-go, Seo not only embodied six distinct characters but also displayed her versatility by creating different voice tones for each role. Alongside Lee Ji-eun and Yeo Jin-goo, Seo's captivating performances, added depth and richness to the series. Directed by Oh Choong-hwan and Kim Jung-hyun, Hotel del Luna became a record-breaking success, standing as the most-watched tvN drama of 2019 and ranking among the top-rated Korean dramas in cable television history.
Seo's next project reunites her with director Han Tae-sook. Titled "The Shepherd Instead," this psychological drama explores themes of sympathy and remorse surrounding the act of discarding things that should be cherished. The play, written and directed by Han Tae-sook, was held at the Arko Arts Theater Small Theater in Seoul from March 6 to March 15, 2020. Seo shares the stage with a talented cast, including Jeon Park-chan, Son Jin-hwan, Kim Eun-seok, Seong Yeo-jin, Kim Do-wan, Yoo Seung-rak, and Park Soo-jin.
In 2020, Seo made a memorable guest appearance in the South Korean adaptation of the acclaimed BBC series Doctor Foster titled The World of the Married on cable channel JTBC. She portrayed the role of Chae Gook-hee, Chairman Choi's wife, a patient of the main character Ji Seon-woo (played by Kim Hee-ae). Chae Gook-hee was a compelling and influential character who deeply impacted Ji Seon-woo's life. The drama achieved phenomenal success and garnered the highest ratings in the history of South Korean cable television at that time. Seo received widespread acclaim for her performance, particularly for her captivating scenes alongside Kim Hee-ae, solidifying her reputation as a scene-stealer.
On June 22, 2020, Seo received the prestigious 30th Lee Hae-rang Drama Award during the awards ceremony held at the Chosun Ilbo Museum of Art. The Lee Hae-rang Theater Award, established by the Lee Hae-rang Theater Foundation, serves as a tribute to Lee Hae-rang, a trailblazer in the Korean theater industry who died in 1989. This esteemed accolade is bestowed upon individuals or theater groups that have made significant contributions to the traditional theater field.
In the same year, Seo reunited with director Oh Choong-hwan in drama Start-Up. Seo plays Yoon Seon-hak, the CEO of SH Venture Capital and the founder of Sandbox. She had a pioneering vision of recognizing the business and she succeeded both as an investor in her business and as an investor. Also in 2020, Seo was cast Jo Yoon-sil, the strict mother of Seon Woo-jun, acted by Lee Jae-wook in KBS drama Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol.
In March 2021, Seo was offered the role of Anita in the premiere adaptation of Philip Ridley's play Vincent River, directed by Shin Yoo-cheong. The play revolves around the poignant conversations between Anita and Davy. Anita, a grieving mother who tragically lost her gay son Vincent in a homophobic assault and murder, is haunted by the loss. Meanwhile, Davy, a character who hovers around Anita, adds depth to the narrative. Vincent River explores themes of homophobia, hate crimes, and discriminatory views. It marked the second collaborative project between MPN Company and Ateod, with the aim of revitalizing the Daehangno performance market and establishing a stable production environment. The play made its debut in Korea in April 2021.
In the summer of 2021, Seo had the opportunity to share the role of actress 'A' with Jung Jae-eun in the play The Dressing Room (Gakuya). This production takes place in the dressing room of a theater where Anton Chekhov's The Seagull is being performed. Actress 'A' is portrayed as a ghost seeking solace in the dressing room, haunted by unfulfilled aspirations for a specific role. Despite predominantly taking on the roles of prompter or minor characters, 'A' has always harbored a deep desire to play a leading female role. The Dressing Room holds significance as it is the renowned work of Kunio Shimizu, a celebrated Japanese playwright who died in April 2021.

## Philanthropy

Seo, who was honored with the 30th Hae-rang Theater Award, donated the prize money to her alma mater and colleagues in the performing arts industry who are facing difficulties due to COVID-19. On the 25th, Seo Yi-sook's agency, Quantum E&M, announced, "Actress Yi-sook Seo donated the theater prize money to the theater industry, including the Welfare Foundation, a theater, and Jeongok High School, where she graduated."
On July 1, 2022, Seo signed an agreement with three senior centers, namely Jeongok Senior Citizens Center, Jeongok 5-ri Senior Citizens’ Center, and Jeongok Koaru Apartment Senior Citizens’ Center, and sponsored them.

## Personal life

In 2011, for the first time in her life, Seo underwent a comprehensive health checkup organized by the Korea Actors Welfare Foundation. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. After completing the performance of "Memories of Catfish," she underwent surgery in July. Although the surgery went well, there was a risk of vocal cord abnormalities due to the proximity of the thyroid gland to the uvula. The hospital warned her that using her voice would be uncomfortable for a while, and vocal cord examination would take place after six months. As a theater actor, this could be a fatal blow, especially for someone known for captivating vocalization even in large theaters.
She participated in rehearsals for play The God of Massacre but struggled with throat strain and pain. Concerned about inconveniencing her colleagues, Seo eventually withdrew from the play. Later, Seo made the decision to resign from her other scheduled plays, including "Oedipus," "Gift of Gorgon," and "There's No Sleepless Night." Afterward, Seo felt a profound emptiness and a terrifying fear of losing the voice that had established her career onstage. However, she received an offer to play a royal concubine in JTBC historical drama Insu, the Queen Mother. Since the drama required less strain on her voice compared to theater, she saw it as an opportunity to gain diverse experiences while taking a break and accepted the role.
From July to September 2021, false rumors began to circulate, claiming that Seo had died from a heart attack. It was later discovered that these rumors were spread by a netizen identified as A. In response, Seo's agency, Quantum E&M, took legal action against the perpetrator. Quantum E&M issued a statement emphasizing their firm stance, stating, "There will be no leniency."

## Filmography
### Film

List of Film(s) :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Role | Ref. |
| 1998 | Beautiful Times | 아름다운 시절 | Gwangjudaek | |
| 2010 | Best Seller | 베스트셀러 | the original author's daughter | |
| 2011 | Cat: Two Eyes of Death | 고양이: 죽음을 보는 두 개의 눈 | psychiatrist | |
| 2014 | The Fatal Encounter | 역린 | Go Soo-ae | |
| 2017 | The Mayor | 특별시민 | Mayor Byun's wife | |
| 2018 | Memory of That Day | 그날의 기억 | Hee-ja | |
| 2021 | Hypnosis | 최면 | Cameo | |

### Television drama

List of Television Musical Drama(s) :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Note | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Role | Note | Ref. |
| 2021 | Joseon Beauty Pageant | 조선미인별전 | Kim Ma-nim | 2 episodes | |

### Television series

List of Television Drama Series(s) :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Note | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Role | Note | Ref. |
| 2010 | Jejungwon | 제중원 | Queen Myung-sung | | |
| 2011 | Insu, the Queen Mother | 인수대비 | Court Lady Park | | |
| 2011 | The Duo | 짝패 | Keun-nyeon | | |
| 2012 | Feast of the Gods | 신들의 만찬 | No Young-sim | | |
| 2013 | Your Neighbor's Wife | 네 이웃의 아내 | Ha Sung-in | | |
| 2013 | The Heirs | 왕관을 쓰려는 자, 그 무게를 견뎌라 – 상속자들 | Hyo-shin's mother | | |
| 2013 | The King's Daughter, Soo Baek-hyang | 제왕의 딸 수백향 | Mrs. Yong-goo | Cameo | |
| 2013 | Two Weeks | 투윅스 | deaf woman | Cameo (Ep.4) | |
| 2013 | Blooded Palace: The War of Flowers | 궁중잔혹사 – 꽃들의 전쟁 | Seol-jook | | |
| 2013 | Pure Love | 일말의 순정 | Ma Eun-hee | | |
| 2013–2014 | You're All Surrounded | 너희들은 포위됐다 | Kang Seok-soon | | |
| 2013–2014 | Empress Ki | 기황후 | Court Lady Seo (Empress Tanashiri's right-hand servant) | | |
| 2014 | Diary of a Night Watchman | 야경꾼 일지 | Queen Chung-soo | | |
| 2014 | My Dear Cat | 고양이는 있다 | Hong Soon-ja | | |
| 2015 | Unkind Ladies | 착하지 않은 여자들 | Na Hyun-ae | | |
| 2015 | Heart to Heart | 하트 투 하트 | Psychiatrist Uhm Gi-choon | | |
| 2015–2016 | Six Flying Dragons | 육룡이 나르샤 | Myo-sang, Moo-hyul's grandmother | | |
| 2016 | The Master of Revenge | 마스터-국수의 신 | Seol Mi-ja | | |
| 2016 | Happy Home | 가화만사성 | Jang Kyung-ok | | |
| 2016—2017 | First Love Again | 다시, 첫사랑 | Kim Young-sook | | |
| 2017 | Reunited Worlds | 다시 만난 세계 | Jung-won's mother | Cameo | |
| 2017 | Bad Thief, Good Thief | 도둑놈, 도둑님 | Hong Mi-ae | | |
| 2017 | The Rebel | 역적: 백성을 훔친 도적 | Lady Jo, Jo Cham-bong's wife | | |
| 2018 | My Secret Terrius | 내 뒤에 테리우스 | Kwon Young-sil | | |
| 2018 | Mother | 마더 | Madame Ra | | |
| 2019 | Hotel del Luna | 호텔 델루나 | Ma-go Sisters | Six Roles | |
| 2019 | The Banker | 더 뱅커 | Do Jeong-ja | | |
| 2019 | My Lawyer, Mr. Jo 2: Crime and Punishment | 동네변호사 조들호 | Shin Mi-sook | | |
| 2020 | Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol | 도도솔솔라라솔 | Jo Yoon-sil | | |
| 2020 | Start-Up | 스타트업 | Yoon Seon-hak | | |
| 2020 | The World of the Married | 부부의 세계 | Chairman Choi's wife | Cameo | |
| 2020 | Nobody Knows | 아무도 모른다 | Mo Su-jeong | Cameo | |
| 2020 | Welcome 2 Life | 웰컴2라이프 | Shin Jeong-hye | Cameo | |
| 2022 | Under the Queen's Umbrella | 슈룹 | Deposed Queen Yoon | | |
| 2022 | Shooting Stars | 별똥별 | Actress from Star Force Entertainment | Cameo | |
| 2023 | The Good Bad Mother | 나쁜엄마 | Park Sung-ae | | |
| 2024 | Knight Flower | 밤에 피는 꽃 | Nan-kyung | | |

### Web series

List of Web Series :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Note | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Role | Note | Ref. |
| 2022 | Rookie Cops | 너와 나의 경찰수업 | Kim Soon-young | Disney+ Original Series | |
| 2023 | Queenmaker | 퀸메이커 | Son Young-sim | Netflix Original Series | |
| 2024 | Red Swan | 화인가 스캔들 | Park Mi-ran | Disney+ Original Series | |

### Television show

List of Appearance(s) in Television Show :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Note | Ref. |
| Year | English | Original | Role | Note | Ref. |
| 2014 | OBS 'Unique Entertainment News' | OBS '독특한 연예뉴스' | Featured Actress | OBS | |
| 2014 | KBS Entertainment Weekly | 연예가중계 | Featured Actress | KBS (2014.07.13) | |
| 2018 | KBS Entertainment Weekly | 연예가중계 | Featured Actress | KBS (2014.07.13) | |
| 2019 | Happy Together | 해피투게더 | Panelists | KBS (2014.07.13) | |
| 2022 | Hot Singers | 뜨거운 씽어즈 | Cast Member | JTBC | |
| 2022 | Radio Stars | 황금어장 라디오스타 | Panelists | MBC | |
| 2022 | Late Night Ghost Talk | 심야괴담회 | Panelists | MBC | |
| 2020 | Problem Child in House | 옥탑방의 문제아들 | Panelists | KBS Ep 92 | |
| 2020 | I live with a sick dog | 나는 아픈 개와 산다 | Cast Member | KBS | |
| 2020 | Bob Bless You 2 | 밥블레스유 | Panelists | Olive Episode 10 | |

## Stage
### Musical

List of Musical Play(s) :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Theater | Date | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Role | Theater | Date | Ref. |
| 1990 | Make a Hero | 영웅만들기 | non-reporters | Arts and Culture Center Grand Theater | Mar 27–Apr 2 | |
| 2002 | (1st) Uijeongbu Music Theater Festival; yard play swing | (제1회) 의정부음악극축제 ; 마당놀이 변강쇠 | | Uijeongbu Indoor Gymnasium | April 26 | |
| 2003 | Jungle Book | 정글이야기 | wolf captain | Seoul Art Center Small Theater | Jun 14–Jul 6 | |

### Theater Performance as Member of Theater Company Michu

All stage plays as Member of Theater Company Michu :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Theater | Date | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Role | Theater | Date | Ref. |
| 1988 | (1988) Seoul International Theater Festival : Barkkoji | (1988) 서울국제연극제 : 바꼬지 | Yeon-hwa | Culture and Art Hall Grand Theater | Aug 19–20 | |
| 1989 | Shin Yi Gukgi | 신이국기 | People | Arts and Culture Center Grand Theater | May 9–15 | |
| 1991 | Shadow of Time - Trilogy | 시간의 그림자 - 3부작 | Citizen | Arts and Culture Center Grand Theater | June 25–30 | |
| 1993 | Namsadang Sky | 남사당의 하늘 | Bok-joo | National Theater | June 18–24 | |
| 1994 | Macbeth | 맥베드 | | Arts and Culture Center Grand Theater | May 24–May 30 | |
| 1994 | Namsadang Sky | 남사당의 하늘 | Buk-seo | National Theater Grand Theater | June 18–26 | |
| 1994 | Hit and Run | 뺑파전 | Bong-Soo Shim | KBS 88 Gym | Nov 26—Dec 11 | |
| 1994 | General Oh's Claw | 오장군의 발톱 | Mook | Seoul Art Center CJ Towol Theater | Nov 22–25 | |
| 1995 | General Oh's Claw | 오장군의 발톱 | Mook | National Theater Small Theater | Jun 5–17 | |
| 1995 | Preludes - Chopin's Prelude. | 페르라세즈 - 쇼팽의 전주곡 | | Information Small Theater | Aug 3–Sep 3 | |
| 1995 | General Oh's Claw | 오장군의 발톱 | Mook | Incheon General Culture and Arts Center | Oct 23 | |
| 1995 | From Heaven to Earth - The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl | 하늘에서 땅에서 - 견우와 직녀 | Fairy | National Theater Grand Theater | Nov 25–29 | |
| 1996 | Tom Tom Nangrang Tom, Love Story of Hodong and Nangrang | 둥둥 낙랑 둥 | Dwarf | Seoul Art Center CJ Towol Theater | July 12–24 | |
| 1997 | An Ideal Husband | 이상적 남편 | Yun Hye-rim | Art and Culture Center Grand Theater | Feb 6–Mar 3 | |
| 1997 | General Oh's Claw | 오장군의 발톱 | Mook | Seoul Arts Center | Sep 16–21 | |
| 1997 | Madangnori Aerangjeon | 마당놀이 애랑전 | Haeng-su | Jeongdong Cultural Gymnasium | Nov 20–Dec 7 | |
| 1998 | Scorching Sun | 뙤약볕 | Sunmaru | Arts and Culture Center Small Theater | April 14–22 | |
| 1998 | (22nd) Seoul International Theater Festival: Hot Sunshine | (제22회) 서울국제연극제: 뙤약볕 | Sunmaru | Seoul Art Center Small Theater | Jun 14–Jul 6 | |
| 1999 | That Fire | 그, 불 | city woman | Arts and Culture Center Grand Theater | Jun 11–29 | |
| 2002 | A Midsummer Night's Dream | 한여름밤의 꿈 | Hippolytus | Seoul Arts Center outdoor theater | 8.3–8.11 | |
| 2003 | Heo Sam-gwan's Blood Vessel | 허삼관 매혈기 | Heo Ok-ran | Center for Arts and Culture Arts Theater Grand Theater | April 10–20 | |
| 2003 | Choi Seung-hee | 최승희 | Woman | Seoul Art Center CJ Towol Theater | Sep 26–Oct 12 | |
| 2003–2004 | Lee Chun-pung | 이춘풍 | Oh Mok-yi | National Theater Daloreum Theater | Nov 14–Jan 4 | |
| 2004 | (25th) Seoul Theater Festival: Bakery | (제25회) 서울연극제: 빵집 | Narrator | Center for Arts and Culture Arts Theater Grand Theater | May 4–9 | [139] [140] |
| 2004 | Theater Heated Battle—Heo Sam-tube Blood Vending Machine | 연극열전 - 허삼관매혈기 | Heo Ok-ran | Dongsung Art Center Dongsung Hall | Jun 4–Jul 4 | |
| 2004 | Choi Seung-hee | 최승희 | Woman | National Theater Shizuoka, Japan | Oct 16–Nov 7 | |
| 2004 | Three Kingdoms | 삼국지 | No-sook | Sangam World Cup Stadium | Nov 20–Dec 12 | |
| 2005 | Withdrawal Story | 철수이야기 | Woman | Michusanbang White Stone Theater | July 15—17 | |
| 2006 | Jo's orphan | 조씨고아 | Mother Jang-hee, Musa | Seoul Art Center CJ Towol Theater | Sep 3–14 | |
| 2007 | Yeolha Ilmanbo | 열하일기만보 | Yeon-am | Seoul Art Center CJ Towol Theater | March 10–25 | |
| 2008 | Namsadang Sky - The art soul of our clowns who have been here for 100 years! | 남사당의 하늘 - 100년을 이어온 우리 광대들의 예술혼! | Jang Gu-so | Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater | Mar 27–Apr 6 | |
| 2008 | King Lear | 리어왕 | The Clown | Seoul Art Center CJ Towol Theater | Sep 4–10 | |
| 2009 | King Lear | 리어왕 | The Clown | Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater | Mar 13–22 | |
| 2009 | The Tempest | 템페스트 | Miranda | Seoul Art Center CJ Towol Theater | May 20–Jun 6 | |
| 2009 | (2009) SPAF Seoul International Performing Arts Festival: Shakespeare in the 13th year of Cheoljong | (2009) SPAF 서울국제공연예술제 : 철종13년의 셰익스피어 | Ganwol-yi | Daehakro Arts Theater Grand Theater | Oct 19–23 | |
| 2010 | King Lear | 리어왕 | Goneril | Myongdeong Arts Theater | June 12–20 | |

### Theater works post Michu

List of Stage Play(s) :
| Year | Title | Title | Role | Theater | Date | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Role | Theater | Date | Ref. |
| 2005 | Cat Swamp | 고양이늪 | Hester Swayne | Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater | Nov 01–13 | |
| 2006 | Spring Day is Gone | 봄날은 간다 | Daughter | Small Theater Festival | April 7–May 28 | |
| 2006 | Noises Off | 노이즈 오프 | actor Kang Yi-suk, Clarket | Dongsung Art Center | Apr 19–May 28 | |
| 2006–2007 | Steel | 강철 | Yeojogwan (female prison guard) | Arunguji Small Theater | Dec 15–Jan 28 | |
| 2007 | Walking Alone on Yeongdong Bridge in the Rain | 밤비 내리는 영동교를 홀로 걷는 | Joo Hyeon-mi | Daehangno Information Center | Apr 25–May 13 | |
| 2007 | Orestes | 오레스테스 | Clytemnestra | Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater | 11.23–12.02 | |
| 2008 | The Gift of the Gorgon | 고곤의 선물 | Helen Damson | Namsan Arts Center | Nov 18–23 | |
| 2009 | 2009 Seoul Theater Festival - Picasso's Women | 2009 서울연극제 - 피카소의 여인들 | Olga | Seoul Arts Center CJ Towol Theater | April 16–26 | |
| 2009 | The Gift of the Gorgon | 고곤의 선물 | Helen Damson | Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater | June 10–21 | |
| 2009 | The Seagull | 갈매기 | Arkhona | Daehangno Guerrilla Theater | Aug 1–30 | |
| 2010 | Take Care of Mom | 엄마를 부탁해 | eldest daughter | Sejong Center for the Performing Arts M Theater | 2010.01.27–03.23 | |
| 2010 | Play <In-In-In-series> No Sleepless Nights | 연극〈인인인 시리즈〉잠 못드는 밤은 없다 | Chizco | Doosan Art Center Space111 | 2010.05.11–06.06 | |
| 2010 | Morning Drama | 아침 드라마 | woman | Daehangno Guerrilla Theater | Nov 5–28 | |
| 2011 | Maggie's Memories | 매기의 추억 | Seon-min | Daehangno Information Theater | 05.26–06.19 | |
| 2011 | I miss your parents' faces | 니 부모 얼굴이 보고 싶다 | Nam Yoon-jung as Mo | Sejong Center for the Performing Arts M Theater | 06.24–07.29 | |
| 2012 | Oedipus | 오이디푸스 | Jocasta | Myongdong Arts Theater | Jan 20–Feb 13 | |
| 2012 | Our Town | 아워 타운 | stage director | Myeongdong Arts Theater | 09.18–10.14 | |
| 2013 | Heretics | 이단자들 | Diane Cassel | Sogang University Mary Hall | 08.22–09.01 | |
| 2014–2015 | Vanya and Sonya and Masha and Spike | 바냐와 소냐와 마샤와 스파이크 | Misha | Daehakro Arts Theater Grand Theater | Dec 5–Jan 4 | |
| 2014–2015 | Man from Earth | 맨 프럼 어스 | Edith | Uniplex 2 | Nov 7–Feb 22 | |
| 2015 | Portrait of Marina Tsvetaeva | 마리나 츠베타예바의 초상 | Marina Tsvetaeva | Dongsung Art Center Kokduso Theater | Aug 28–Sep 6 | |
| 2016–2017 | Romeo and Juliet | 로미오와 줄리엣 | Nanny | National Theater Daloreum Theater | Dec 9–Jan 13 | |
| 2017 | Romeo and Juliet | 로미오와 줄리엣 | Nanny | Gunpo Culture and Arts Center Suri Hall (Grand Performance Hall) | Jan 21–22 | |
| 2018 | Electra — Directed by Han Tae-Suk | 한태숙 연출 엘렉트라 | Clytemnestra | LG Art Center | April 26–May 5 | |
| 2019 | Lady Macbeth's Wardrobe | 맥베스 부인의 장롱 | Lady Machbeth | Seoul Donhwamun Traditional Music Center | Nov 6-7 | |
| 2020 | A Doll's House | 인형의 집, Part 2 | Nora Helmer | LG Art Center | April 10–28 | |
| 2020 | The Shepperd Instead | 대신 목자 | - | Arko Arts Theater Small Theater | March 6–15 | |
| 2021 | Vincent River | 빈센트 리버 | Anita | Chungmu Art Center Medium Theater Black | Apr 27–Jul 11 | |
| 2021 | Dressing Room | 분장실 | A | Daehakro Jayu Theater | Aug 7–Sep 12 | |

## Voice actor
### Audiobook

List of Audio Book(s) :
| Year | Title | Title | Published Date | Ref. |
| Year | English | Korean | Published Date | Ref. |
| 2019 | The Dark Ages of Park Kyung-ri read by Seo Yi-sook | 서이숙이 읽는 박경리의 암흑시대 | 2019.07.23 | |
| 2019 | Shakespeare's four great tragedies, Macbeth (with Yang Jun-mo, Oh Man-seok, Kwak Myeong-hwa, Kwon Woo-kyung, Kim Seok-hoon, Kim Yong-sun, Kim Hak-cheol, Park Seon-hye, Seung Ju-young, Shin Hyun-yong, Lee Seung-ho, Lee In-cheol, Lee Ji-soo, Jang Ki-yong, Jung Sang-cheol) | 셰익스피어 4대 비극 《맥베스》 | 2019.10.15 | |
| 2020 | Kyunghee (RESOUND short story, read by Seo Yi-sook) | 경희 (RESOUND 단편, 서이숙 낭독) | 2020.03.09 | |
| 2021 | Xiaohong's hand read by Seo Yi-sook | 서이숙이 읽는 샤오훙의 손 | 2021.07.14 | |

### Radio

List of Radio Show(s) :
| Year | Title | Broadcast Date | Notes |
| 2016 | EBS FM Reading Radio Reading Series—100 Actors Read Our Literature | January 27 to February 3 14:20 to 14:40 | Actor Seo Yi-sook's "The Dark Ages" It is a story about losing a husband due to the war and the accident of Soonyoung, who lives with her mother and younger brother and sister, and even her son due to the hospital's insincerity. |
| 2016 | EBS FM Reading Radio Reading Series—100 Actors Read Our Literature | January 27 to February 3 25:20 to 25:40 (rerun) | Actor Seo Yi-sook's "The Dark Ages" It is a story about losing a husband due to the war and the accident of Soonyoung, who lives with her mother and younger brother and sister, and even her son due to the hospital's insincerity. |
| 2016 | EBS FM Reading Radio Reading Series—100 Actors Read Our Literature | February 7 21:00 to 23:00 (rerun) | Actor Seo Yi-sook's "The Dark Ages" It is a story about losing a husband due to the war and the accident of Soonyoung, who lives with her mother and younger brother and sister, and even her son due to the hospital's insincerity. |

## Discography

List of Single(s) :
| Title | Year | Album | Notes |
| "Lying in The Sea" (바다에 누워) (with DK) | 2015 | Immortal Song - Sing a Legend (Summer Special with Friends) | Songs were performed in variety show Immortal Songs: Singing the Legend |
| "Madame Class" (마님s 클래스) (with Jang Jae-hwa) | 2018 | Joseon Beauty Pageant OST | Songs were performed in Two Episodes Musical Drama Joseon Beauty Pageant. |
| "Shout at Me" (나를 외치다) | 2022 | Hot Singers Part 1 | Songs were performed in variety show Hot Singers |
| "Super Star" (with Woo Mi-hwa) | 2022 | Hot Singers Part 2 | Songs were performed in variety show Hot Singers |

## Ambassadorship

| Year | Title |
| 2014 | Korea Autumn Art Festival PR ambassador |
| 2017 | Yeoncheon-gun PR ambassador |
| 2020 | 6th Seoul Citizen's Theater Festival PR ambassador |

## Awards and nominations

List of Award(s) and Nomination(s) :
| Year | Award ceremony | Category | Nominee / Work | Result |
| 1986 | Korean Drama Festival | Best New Actor Award | Seo Yi-sook | Won |
| 1988 | 6th National Theater Festival | Best Actress Award | Seo Yi-sook Pakkoji | Won |
| 1989 | National Theater Festival Acting Award | Best Actress Award | Seo Yi-sook | Won |
| 2003 | Hi-seo Theater Awards | Actor of the Year | Seo Yi-sook | Won |
| 2003 | Hi-seo Theater Awards | Expected Actor | Seo Yi-sook | Won |
| 2004 | 40th Dong-A Theater Awards | Best Acting Award | Seo Yi-sook in Heo Sam-gwan's Blood Throne | Won |
| 2011 | 12th Kim Dong-hoon Theater Award | Best Actress Theater | Seo Yi-sook | Won |
| 2017 | MBC Drama Awards | Golden Acting Award, Actress in a Monday-Tuesday Drama | The Rebel | Won |
| 2020 | 30th Lee Hae-rang Theater Award | Best Actress | Seo Yi-sook | Won |