She rose to popularity in 2012 when she starred in the fantasy-period drama Moon Embracing the Sun, which reunited Kim with Grudge: The Revolt of Gumiho costar Lee Min-ho and Iljimae costar Yeo Jin-goo.[10] Moon surpassed 40% ratings and gained "national drama" status. She followed this with a well-received turn in May Queen (2012) and a supporting role in the 2013 film Commitment,[11] and family drama Golden Rainbow (2013).[1]