Trivia Cafe
11

This South Korean romantic comedy-drama follows a high school student who masters the art of makeup to hide her insecurities about her appearance, leading to a complicated love triangle. What is the title of this popular K-drama, based on a webtoon?

Learn More

True Beauty - television illustration
True Beauty — television

The popular K-drama described is indeed True Beauty (Review). This South Korean romantic comedy-drama brought to life the beloved webtoon by Yaongyi, captivating audiences with its relatable story of a high school student's journey to overcome her insecurities about her appearance through the transformative power of makeup. The series aired from December 2020 to February 2021, quickly becoming a global phenomenon.

At its heart, True Beauty follows Lim Ju-kyung, who, after being bullied for her bare face, meticulously learns makeup techniques to appear as a "goddess" at her new school. Her secret identity forms the core of the narrative, especially as she navigates a complicated love triangle involving the intelligent Lee Su-ho and the rebellious Han Seo-jun, both of whom become entangled in her hidden world. The series delves into themes of self-acceptance, societal beauty standards, and the struggle to find one's true self beyond external appearances.

The K-drama gained significant popularity, partly due to its faithful casting, with actors like Moon Ga-young, Cha Eun-woo, and Hwang In-youp widely praised for embodying their webtoon counterparts. Beyond the charming romance and comedic elements, True Beauty resonated with viewers by offering a heartfelt portrayal of adolescent struggles with self-esteem and the importance of inner beauty, proving that true beauty goes far beyond surface-level looks.