By Marion Peña
Spoiler warning: this review will contain spoilers for several major events that happen throughout the main series.
Content warning: there will be discussion of some heavier themes this series tackles, including obsessive stalking, domestic violence, PTSD, and suicide.
Exploring Self-Love Through the Journey of True Beauty
True Beauty is a captivating romance dramedy comic featured on Naver’s Webtoon, delving deep into the complex journey of self-acceptance and the importance of loving oneself. The narrative intricately weaves the lives of its characters, all of whom are grappling with their own emotional struggles as they navigate their way through society. The central character, Jugyeong Lim, is an avid fan of alternative rock music and horror comics and films. However, her middle school years were plagued by relentless bullying due to her appearance, which included features like bushy eyebrows, acne scars, and monolid eyes—qualities that society often deems unattractive. This unrelenting treatment left a profound impact on her self-esteem and mental health.
Jugyeong’s Transformation: The Power of Makeup and Self-Expression
In her quest for solace, Jugyeong turned to online forums, desperately seeking solutions to her pain and wishing to escape the harsh reflections that reminded her of the toxicity she faced. It was during this turmoil that she discovered the transformative power of makeup. Fast forward to high school, where Jugyeong has honed her skills, crafting a fashion sense that reflects her newfound confidence. She finally forms friendships, yet the underlying pressure remains. Each night, as she washes away her makeup, she is reminded of the effort required to maintain her constructed identity. The fear of rejection based on her natural appearance looms large; thus, she feels compelled to uphold her carefully curated persona. The struggle is palpable: horror-themed interests are often dismissed, acne scars are hidden, and a cheerful demeanor is crafted to elicit compassion. This relentless effort to gain acceptance is what Jugyeong has longed for since childhood.
Jugyeoung Lim, wearing makeup. Credit to Yaongyi and WEBTOON.
Family Dynamics and the Struggles of Being the Middle Child
As the middle child in her family, Jugyeong feels the weight of expectations and comparisons heavily. Her older sister excels academically, while her younger brother enjoys the privileges of being the adored youngest child. This family dynamic exacerbates Jugyeong’s feelings of inadequacy, as even her mother, albeit unintentionally, is more critical of her. To cope, Jugyeong immerses herself in niche hobbies, finding solace in the unconventional and the abnormal. Unfortunately, companionship in these interests eludes her until she serendipitously meets Suho Lee, the first male lead, during a fateful encounter at a comic store. Both are there for the latest Junji Ito release, but Jugyeong is makeup-free that evening. Their initial interactions are marked by tension and misunderstanding, yet they spark a connection that will evolve throughout the series.
Jugyeoung Lim, without makeup. Credit to Yaongyi and WEBTOON.
The Emotional Toll of Jugyeoung’s Double Life
The fear of exclusion and rejection weighs heavily on Jugyeoung, stemming from years of being treated poorly by her peers. The possibility of her secret—a bare face that deviates from societal beauty standards—being exposed terrifies her. This anxiety is both tangible and relatable, as the artwork effectively conveys her emotional landscape through realistic character designs. Unlike typical stylized representations, the art remains grounded, allowing for a more authentic portrayal of her feelings. Jugyeoung’s myriad of emotions are vividly illustrated; she experiences joy, fear, anger, and disgust in a way that resonates with readers. The internal conflict of wanting to share her authentic self while fearing the backlash of societal judgment is a recurring theme throughout the series. Author Yaongyi masterfully captures this struggle, making it a cornerstone of Jugyeoung’s character arc.
Various facial expressions. Credit to Yaongyi and WEBTOON
Unraveling Secrets: The Catalyst for Drama in Jugyeoung’s Life
What happens when Jugyeoung’s carefully maintained secret is inadvertently exposed? This pivotal moment creates a ripple effect that disrupts her carefully crafted life. Surprisingly, Suho reveals a level of understanding that transcends superficial judgments. He, too, has faced his share of hardships and does not let Jugyeoung’s appearance define their budding friendship. Their connection deepens as they bond over shared interests and emotional struggles. Suho’s character is not without his own scars; he has endured bullying for being Korean-Japanese, leading him to distrust superficial relationships. His friendship with Jugyeoung offers a reprieve from the loneliness he feels, allowing them to navigate their emotional landscapes together. This mutual understanding lays the foundation for their evolving relationship, setting the stage for the drama that unfolds over the course of the series.
In middle school, Suho had a friend named Seyeon Yoon, who, unfortunately, fell victim to the harsh realities of public scrutiny and cyberbullying, leading to a tragic end. This incident profoundly impacted both Suho and Seojun Han, the series’ second male lead, molding their perspectives on relationships and fame. Suho’s interest in horror reflects his grappling with the darker aspects of life, stemming from his personal losses. As he navigates his emotional turmoil, he begins to form a genuine connection with Jugyeoung, who becomes a beacon of light amid their shared darkness.
As the story unfolds, Jugyeoung’s secret remains hidden from most, creating a tension that influences her self-esteem and interpersonal relationships. Torn between pursuing a traditional education and following her passion for makeup artistry, she ultimately chooses to study visual arts while nurturing her love for makeup on the side. Various mini-arcs illustrate her journey of helping others, showcasing her talent and the joy it brings her. Through these interactions, Jugyeoung develops a reputation among her friends for her willingness to lend a helping hand, attracting both gratitude and opportunism.
Fame, Influence, and the Dark Side of Social Media
One of the most compelling aspects of True Beauty is the exploration of how a kind-hearted individual navigates the treacherous waters of public attention. Jugyeoung’s rise as a social media influencer showcases the duality of fame; while it brings her recognition and admiration, it also exposes her to the harsh realities of online trolling and the pressure to maintain a flawless image. The series poignantly captures the emotional turmoil that accompanies public scrutiny, as Jugyeoung grapples with her identity in a world where perception is paramount. This exploration of social media’s impact on mental health and self-worth is particularly relevant in today’s digital age.
Suho Lee. Credit to Yaongyi and WEBTOON.
Character Backstories: The Struggles of Suho Lee and Seojun Han
Suho Lee, the son of a prominent Korean actor, has witnessed the fickleness of fame firsthand. After enduring the tragic loss of his friend Seyeon due to relentless cyberbullying, Suho harbors a deep aversion to public life. In stark contrast, Seojun Han, who rises from a background of poverty, sees success in the entertainment industry as his means of survival. Their differing perspectives on fame create a compelling dynamic, especially when Jugyeoung’s influence leads Seojun to pursue his dreams despite the risks involved. As Suho faces familial challenges, including his father’s health crisis, the emotional stakes rise, complicating his relationship with Jugyeoung as they navigate their feelings amidst external pressures.
Seojun Han. Credit to Yaongyi and WEBTOON.
Navigating Love and Ambition Amidst Fame’s Challenges
As Jugyeoung and Seojun begin dating two years after Suho’s departure, the couple faces the challenges that come with fame. Seojun’s financial struggles push Jugyeoung to encourage him to return to the entertainment industry. However, success comes at a price; the pressures of being in the public eye lead to an inevitable separation. Seojun becomes a target of obsessive fandom, particularly from a sasaeng who infiltrates Jugyeoung’s life, creating a terrifying scenario that culminates in violence. The series does not shy away from depicting the real dangers of celebrity culture and the impact it has on personal relationships, showcasing the lengths some individuals will go to for fame and attention.
The Harrowing Reality of Domestic Violence and Its Impact
The story also highlights the broader societal issues surrounding domestic violence, particularly through the character of Sujin Kang. Initially portrayed as a petty antagonist, her journey unveils a complex narrative of abuse and manipulation. Sujin’s experiences with an abusive boyfriend who exploits her vulnerability expose the darker aspects of fame and societal expectations. The portrayal of her struggles is not only poignant but serves to raise awareness about the cyclical nature of abuse. Jugyeoung’s willingness to confront Sujin about her situation marks a significant turning point, showcasing her growth and empathy as she becomes an advocate for those in need.
This arc serves as a crucial commentary on the realities faced by many individuals grappling with similar circumstances. Jugyeoung’s evolution from a self-conscious girl to a supportive friend illustrates the power of compassion and understanding in the face of adversity. The series showcases the importance of community support and the need for open discussions about mental health and domestic violence.
Understanding True Beauty: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance
Ultimately, True Beauty challenges conventional notions of beauty and acceptance. Jugyeoung’s journey emphasizes that true beauty is not solely based on physical appearance but encompasses the essence of who we are as individuals. Throughout the series, Jugyeoung grapples with her insecurities, from her acne scars to her self-worth, questioning her ability to receive love from those around her. Despite her struggles, she learns to embrace her identity, realizing that her worth is not defined by societal standards. This powerful message resonates deeply, encouraging readers to reflect on their own perceptions of beauty and self-acceptance.
As Jugyeoung faces the public scrutiny and challenges of fame, she remains steadfast in her belief that authenticity is paramount. Her refusal to undergo plastic surgery or hide her scars symbolizes a movement towards embracing one’s true self. The climax of the series, driven by external pressures and personal revelations, ultimately leads Jugyeoung to rediscover her passion for makeup artistry and its transformative effects on others. The emotional and societal implications of her journey are profound, leaving a lasting impact on both her character and the audience.
True Beauty is an intense and immersive read, filled with emotional highs and lows that keep readers engaged from start to finish. The pacing is expertly crafted, making it an addictive experience that draws you into Jugyeoung’s world. The unique use of digital storytelling, combined with music elements, enhances the emotional weight of key moments, providing a fresh perspective in the realm of webtoons. As the digital manhwa landscape continues to evolve, True Beauty stands out as a must-read for its relatable themes and compelling narrative.
Final Thoughts: Why True Beauty is a Must-Read for Drama Enthusiasts
Overall, I highly recommend True Beauty for anyone seeking a gripping and dramatic narrative. Every episode of the main story is available for free on WEBTOON, with additional side stories accessible via Fast-Pass. Furthermore, the series has been adapted into a 16-episode TV drama available on Viki, enriching the experience for fans. This engaging tale eloquently captures the journey of self-discovery, love, and the complexities of modern social interactions, making it a contemporary Ugly Betty for comic enthusiasts. With over 940 million global views, it’s evident that this series resonates with a wide audience.
Marion Peña is a Dominican writer based in NYC. They’ve been reading manga and comics since childhood, and writing/podcasting about them since 2015. If you’d like to see more of their work, all their projects are here: https://microwavey.carrd.co/
