The early part of 2005 saw her star in the action-comedy "She's on Duty", but she would follow up by returning to the realm of TV dramas. It proved to be the best move of her career, as "My Lovely Sam Soon" ended up becoming the most-watched drama of 2005. The forthright, independent personality she displayed in her leading role as a woman who finds unexpected success in life as a baker endeared her to women across Korea, and later Asia, establishing her as a top star. Later that year, Kim decided to finish her college degree by transferring to Kyung Hee University as a Theater and Film major (she graduated in 2009 and received an Achievement Award from the College of Art and Design).