HOW DO YOU DOOOOOOO
Well, not very well considering True Beauty ended today and I'm going to have to spend the whole of 2021 nursing my awful second lead syndrome.True Beauty was a really fun ride. It had it's plot in place, the right amount of funny moments and lovable high schoolers (and their families). The female lead was likable and I rooted for her throughout. Cha Eun Woo did great and could hold his own (has he been working out though? He grew biceps overnight. Damn).
But there is one person who totally breathed life into this show and yes the entire planet knows him by now and there are exactly zero surprises in this name-reveal. SEOJUN was amazing. His puppy scenes made me soft. His intense scenes made me hot. His confession scenes set the bar too high. His ultimate fate made me cry buckets (with him). He simply took over all our lives. He is definitely on that list of my all-time favorite characters and I just want to maintain a list of all his iconic dialogues and go back and watch them scene by scene (maybe that's borderline creepy. Well, I'm sorry dae sekkiya).
But there are so many more characters I want to talk about. The supporting cast was a great strength of this show. Im Semi did such a good job and I loved her pairing with teacher Han. I loved seeing them smash gender roles so royally. Teacher Han was the kind of teacher teacher I not only wanted all my life, but the kind I want to be in the future (yep, I'm a future teacher lol). Su Ah and Taehoon were adorable. Su Ah was such a good friend too. Sujin was great too, minus the minor (or MAJOR) blip where she strayed for a while. But I liked her journey enough to forgive her. I wish the writer hadn't given her that cliche second female lead script, but I guess they were sticking to the script.
Seojun Squad and Suho squad were both awesome. But yes, if I have to pick one, I'll have to pick seojun squad (I'm sorry dae saekkiya). Kim Chorong and Taehoon are the kind of friends I want to manifest into my life (where do I sign up for them?). Joo Young was goalssss. He was so funny (oh shit, my eyes hahaha). I loved all the extraordinary you cast cameos (but what about haruuuu). Chani did well in extended cameo.
Looking back, I was super excited for True Beauty when I found out Hwang In Yeop was playing the second lead. I absolutely adored him in 18 again. And even though I knew he wouldn't be getting the girl here (again), I was just so excited to see him in a role with more screen time for him. And in that sense True Beauty didn't fail to deliver.
It is easily one of the best high school romance kdramas out there I would recommend to everyone and I am sure I will go back and watch it again sometime and bug a few friends to watch it too.
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for its genre, it's a really good drama
I feel like a lot of people dislike TB because they consider that it's cliché and that's it's been done before. Honestly I don't disagree, but that's just the thing: it's a high school drama about an insecure FL and a ML who helps her gain confidence...I agree, it's been done before.
But frankly I feel like describing the drama this way doesn't really give credit to the execution.
I loved the main love story. My heart broke for Seojun, like everyone else's did, but I frankly didn't want him to end up with Jookyung. I agree that he practically carried the entire drama on his back and he's the reason why it became this popular, but I didn't mind him as the second lead, I just wish they had worked a little harder for him to have a happy ending. I feel like they used his pain to make the drama more interesting but I mean.. isn't this what writers are supposed to do? Make the story more dramatic? The ending hit hard because it made me wanna sob. That's the whole point.
So back to the main couple, i really loved them. I think they had chemistry and that their entire love story was well-written. At first I was scared they would drag out the whole "he doesn't know it's her" plot line but turns out he finds out rather quickly. People hate on Suho because they love Seojun but i just don't agree i think both characters deserves Jukyung just as much. Suho and her were just meant to be I guess. Suho went through so much and i didn't see him make one decision that was rude or out of line. I also feel like the pure, 100% love he had for Jukyung was exactly what she needed, whereas Seojun teased her too much. Although it's something, as viewers, we love, it might not be as fun for her who literally hates how she looks.
HOWEVER I loved Seojun's character so much that I really hope they write a character like him again as a main lead. Cause i agree, he's amazing. His earrings and hair and personality and naturally smokey eyes are what made this drama what it is!!!!I'm tired of seeing similar ML, although I loved Suho.
I loved Soojin's character, because it allowed a female second lead to pick herself up. I feel like male second leads are always like seojun: jealous of the main couple but still supportive at the end. Whereas the female second lead is always so toxic and manipulative. And sure soojin is all of those things but there's much more than just her jealousy behind it. You can really feel the build-up of her anger and pain because of the abuse she goes through at home. Her acting was great too.
Oh and finally the OST?? chef's kiss. Whether it's how do you do, Missing you, starlight, or even those 1:30 mins of Seojun singing flower pot? I finished the drama a few weeks ago and i still listen to all of these all the time.
Overall, I feel like you need to remember this is a high school drama, okay? It's mostly about the vibe, the outfits, the OST, the love story. Yeah it's basic but i feel like the execution is great, and I rewatched the scenes a billion times. Watch iiit and keep and open mind.
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It was ok
The setup with ML tormented over a friends death and FL appearance were basically pointless as soon enough this settles into standard fair.1. Pedestrian/Car accident despite all the time in the world to avoid? check
2. Love triangle where center (FL in this one) is oblivious? check
3. Mean mom suddenly overcome with grief when learning of child's hardships years too late and suddenly all is forgiven? check
5. Character disappears overseas for an extended time and returns with no advance word. check
6. Pointless breakup? check
7. Hospital visit due to gastrointestinal issue? check
8. Third wheel heroically gives up and helps main leads get back together after being annoying the entire show? check
10. Best friend betrayal to return later to allow lead to forgive to show how wonderful lead is? check
It's like there's a list that must be checked off at all costs to the story and characters. Still as formulaic as it is, it's not offensively bad.
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Sensational drama that has stolen the hearts of millions
Get ready to be captivated by the sensational drama that has stolen the hearts of millions: "True Beauty." As a newcomer to webtoons, I stumbled upon this extraordinary story, and its unique plot and stunning art instantly won me over. Little did I know that this webtoon would be adapted into a drama, filling me with an immeasurable amount of joy and anticipation."True Beauty" boasts a cast that is nothing short of perfection. With each episode, I found myself completely engrossed, unable to miss a single moment. The characters are all so lovable and relatable, bringing an extra layer of depth and charm to the story. The comedic talents of the female lead injected laughter into every scene, making her a delight to watch.
The romantic aspect of the drama is simply irresistible. The chemistry between the female lead and Suho, with his cold demeanor and yet sweet gestures, had me swooning. And let's not forget about Han Seo Jun, whose boldness, patience, and sacrifices made him an absolute standout.
The drama is not without its fair share of emotional moments. The twists and turns of the plot kept me on the edge of my seat, experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. But in the end, the drama delivered a satisfying conclusion that left me feeling content and fulfilled
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I connected with True beauty
I feel like writing this review might be a little bias because i connected with true beauty personally. Growing up having acne was really touch especially when beauty standards are always set unrealistically. Luckily my skin has cleared up now but i could connect to every emotion Lim Joo Gyung was feeling. Every episode keeps you excited as to what's going to happen next and makes you feel for the what every characters is going through. I like that they made her character goofy and not perfect all the time, especially at home when she would wear those clothes and even her relationship with her brother. Honestly on point I dress like that at home. But all of that aside, this was a very well rounded drama with developed characters tackling serious issues, like body appearance, mental health, suicide and bullying etc but in an light hearted way.The great humour in the show is credited to how the characters were written and the actors playing the roles, Lim Joo Gyung's clumsiness, cuteness and growth made her the star of the show for me, the actor displayed all the right emotions with ease that i believed her to be Lim Joo Gyung. It was nice to see for a change writers writing characters like her that are goofy and not always behaved well, like how a girl is expected to be. She believed in herself, her dreams and did not value herself less because she wasn't doing well academically which is a great message to sent to young girls and boys watching. Eun Woo and In Yeop also did a great job portraying their characters, the cast was very well chosen for this show. They all added to the story and emotions so well as each character had their own growing to do. Although the time skip was a little off putting it did not hinder the story as much, if anything this drama could of been 20 episodes. All around a amazing romcom. Although the drama was very basic in terms of love and the second lead syndrome, including all the cringey moments it somehow worked.
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Unexpectedly good, can’t wait to rewatch
I honestly started True Beauty just to pass time and didn’t expect to like it this much. It looks like a fluffy high school romcom at first but then it slowly talks about real topics like insecurity, bullying, loneliness and feeling like you’re never enough as you are. And it does all that without killing the fun. It still feels fun, silly and romanticJukyung is such an easy character to relate to. Her fear, awkwardness, overthinking it all feels very real. And Cha Eunwoo as Suho… I was surprised by how quiet and emotional his performance is. He doesn’t overdo anything, but you feel his grief, the guilt, the way he cares but doesn’t know how to show it. It’s very soft, very human. Seojun completely wrecked me too, because you can feel how genuine his love is even when you know how things will probably end.
The show made me laugh out loud in some scenes and then suddenly hit me with emotions when I least expected it. The pacing is great, the chemistry feels natural and the ost stays with you. It’s not a perfect drama and it doesn’t try to be deep in a heavy way but it feels sincere and warm
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What I didn’t enjoy was how the female lead was written to be so friendly with Su ho’s ex best friend. That dynamic felt unnecessary and took away from the relationship I actually cared about. I would’ve preferred to see her story focus more on Su‑ho instead of building connections with someone who had such a painful history with him.
Overall, I loved the main couple, but I really wish the drama had shown more of their romance and growth together. I’d love to see these two reunite in another drama or movie someday.
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The same cliche and boring story
This drama has nothing new neither fresh, it was funny but that was their strongest point (and all the memes that came from here).Will you remember the message of the beauty? No, probably you will remember the okey dokey dance more, but it's natural since they didn't focused on female lead struggles with her appearance, they care more for the tedious love triangle. The story is that lame that the side characters are actual more interesting than the FL and that it's not okay cause she should carry the drama.
The second male lead, another great and charismatic character that ended up being a heartbroken guy till the end. I'm tired of that, why is so difficult to make him happy with another love or something. Anyway, he stole the show for me.
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A fun drama to watch !
True beauty was just a fun drama to watch during your downtime or if you need a break from any action pack dramas. I think this is a show that is not for everyone. True beauty is a fun and endearing show, also really tropey but it was really silly, But I would recommend this if you just need a calm drama with not that much thinking.Okay for that acting I enjoyed their acting it was not the best but it was still amazing.
Ju Kyung is a bit ditzy and clumsy, she grew a bit better as a character which was great. Moon Ga Young did a great job at portraying this character and made you feel sympathy towards Ju Kyung. I defiantly wanted her to have a better future.
Soo Ho was one of the love interests of Ju Kyung, he was like the tsundere type coming off as cold at first and then slowly you get to know him more. Cha Eun Woo did a great job at playing Soo Ho since he did play a similar character in My ID is Gangnam Beauty so I believe he took some elements from that character due to similarities.
Ju Kyung and Soo Ho relationship were super cute and just fun to watch. One of my favorite things about this couple is that Soo Ho falls in love with Ju Kyung first.
Seo Joon !! I loved him !! Seo Joon grew on me during the show and I was kinda rooting for him a bit at the end. He was a bad boy and Hwang In Yeop played him so well probably one of my newest favorite actors.
For Seo Joon and Ju Kyung's relationship, I found it so cute. They had a playful and tease relationship which I'm a sucker for Lol.
Soo Ho and Seo Joon's relationship were honestly one of the most heartbreaking things to watch in this show, there was just a lot of misunderstanding between them. I just wanted them to just sit and talk and when they finally did it was so heartwarming seeing their friendship come back. I love this bromance
OST not one of my favorites but did enjoy all the songs. My favorites were "Love So Fine" by Cha Eunwoo and "How Do You Do?" by Chani
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My favorite Kdrama
I loved this drama. I was sad when it ended. I loved every moment. I'm now starting to read the Manhwa of it because I loved it so much. Its cute, funny, and original. I love the lead actor in every kdrama I've seen him in and he plays his roll perfectly. This one goes down as a classic to me. The love triangle really gets you hooked. If your looking to start watching kdramas, this is a good first watch. If you've already watched this kdrama,I highly recommend reading the manhwa of it. There is a lot more to the story that wasn't in the kdrama.Was this review helpful to you?
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Different from Webtoon, Good or Bad(?)
If you would not like to know who the female lead will end up with before you watch it, I think you shouldn't be reading reviews, honestly it is a bit hard to not spoil it.I started watching without reading the webtoon, but I went to read the webtoon after I started the drama. I would say I personally prefer a remake that doesn't follow exactly from the webtoon, if not why watching + reading both of it? Also I enjoyed watching shows with unexpected plots, so I don't mind if it changes the story, as long as the remake is also a good story! Which I think this is! The drama started off similarly and became quite different in the second half, also it doesn't have some characters that appeared in the webtoon and created some new characters too, which makes sense for the story to develop differently. Plus! This is still an ongoing webtoon and drama only have 16 eps.
If you are a fan of the webtoon and are persistent in the storyline or loveline, hoping to just watch the actual scenes being reenacted, you may reconsider watching this; however, if you are opened to a refreshing remake, then you should watch it! Although it shares a different story, but both are fairly good! Although TBH the last few eps of this drama was a bit draggy, but still okay for me!
Besides the main roles, their side roles are pretty interesting and funny too (especially female lead's teacher and family), definitely gave me a good laugh from time to time. All casts' interactions are quite hilarious and natural too (except for Eun Woo haha, I love him a lot but couldn't deny the fact that his acting was not that natural, as compared to In-Yeop, but has improvement from his previous drama)
Anyway, I'm #TeamSeoJoon, but I prefer female lead with Suho :) At least for the drama.
Reason being that since the very start, the writer has been very consistent in setting up a lot of encounters between female lead and Suho (even from the young age), so it doesn't really make sense for female lead to end up with Seo Joon, although this means breaking lots of second-lead syndrome girls' heart. I'm also pretty glad that the girl wasn't swaying between two guys and was pretty loyal to only Suho, so it ended quite well and I'm overall satisfied. Although I would appreciate if they gave Seo Joon a girl too, honestly he is so precious and deserves so much love. It breaks my heart A LOT when he was always there for the one he cares for but ended up being so sad :'( Gosh, I wish I can have him for myself, such a sweetie pie!!! Definitely one of the best second male leads I've ever seen! With In-Yeop's fantastic portrayal, his on-point smirks and puppy look, he's real good at it!
Overall, a light-hearted teen drama with lovable characters that is worth watching!
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Love this Drama!!!! Favorite one!
I don't know what people are saying about this drama saying that it's boring or it's "mehhh". I'm gonna tell you now that this drama is worth watching. To those who are watching this drama for the first time is very lucky and I hope most people feel the same! I still don't get bored of this masterpiece, like it's just amazing!To sum up the debate whether Han Seo-jun is better or Lee Su-ho, Lee Su-ho is obviously better for Lim Ju-kyung because he's just soo loving and caring towards her (I had to watch this drama multiple times to figure out my answer tbh).
I just wanna say I forgive Kang Soo-jin for her behaviour towards Ju-kyung because she didn't deserve to be treated like that and I really feel bad about her (especially with her parents' divorce and her studying abroad etc.
Thank you True Beauty for helping me heal with your music and characters and drama! I wish I could watch this for the first time again.
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