True Beauty Cast: Unveiling The Stars & Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

Chelsey Witting 02 May 2025

Ever wondered how a high school student, relentlessly judged for her appearance, transforms her life through the power of makeup? The South Korean drama "True Beauty," based on the webtoon by yaongyi, offers a captivating exploration of self-discovery, societal pressures, and the transformative potential of beauty.

The narrative centers on a young woman who, having experienced the sting of bullying and discrimination due to societal beauty standards, embarks on a journey of self-improvement, mastering the art of makeup as her weapon of choice. This series, which captivated audiences worldwide, does more than just present a surface-level transformation; it delves into the complex emotions, insecurities, and ultimately, the resilience of the human spirit. The story highlights the impact of societal pressures and the importance of self-acceptance. The dramas popularity also lies in its exploration of relationships, both romantic and platonic, with a balanced perspective on friendship and family.

The series, which premiered on December 9, 2020, and concluded on February 4, 2021, quickly garnered a massive following. The engaging plot, relatable characters, and stunning visuals, combined with the actors' performance, made it an instant classic in the genre. The show has resonated with audiences of all ages globally, from India to countless other regions. Let's take a closer look at the individuals who breathed life into this beloved story. Here's a comprehensive guide to the stellar cast of "True Beauty."

Actor/Actress	Character	Brief Description
Moon Ga-young	Lim Ju-gyeong	The central character, a high school student who uses makeup to transform her appearance and overcome bullying.
Cha Eun-woo	Lee Su-ho	A popular, handsome, and intelligent student who is initially cold but gradually warms up to Ju-gyeong.
Hwang In-youp	Han Seo-jun	A rebellious and handsome student who develops feelings for Ju-gyeong, creating a love triangle.
Park Yoo-na	Kang Su-jin	Ju-gyeong's classmate and friend, whose perfect facade hides her own struggles.
Park Ho-san	Lim Jae-pil	Ju-gyeong's father.
Jang Hye-jin	Hong Hyun-sook	Ju-gyeong's mother.
Kim Min-gi	Lim Ju-young	Ju-gyeong's younger brother.
Kang Min-ah	Choi Soo-ah	Ju-gyeong's best friend.
Lee Sang-jin	Ahn Hyun-gyu	Ju-gyeong's classmate and friend.

The actors portrayal of the characters in "True Beauty" is one of the main reasons for the shows success. Moon Ga-young, playing the central role of Lim Ju-gyeong, delivered a nuanced performance that resonated with many, while Cha Eun-woo perfectly embodied the brooding, yet compassionate, Lee Su-ho. Hwang In-youp, in the role of Han Seo-jun, charmed viewers with his bad-boy persona. Each actor brought depth and authenticity to their respective roles, making the characters feel genuine and relatable. The casts chemistry, both on and off-screen, further enhanced the viewer's experience. The supporting cast, including Park Yoo-na as Kang Su-jin, added layers of complexity to the narrative, enriching the overall storytelling.

One of the most interesting aspects of the "True Beauty" phenomenon is how it transcended the screen, generating a close-knit bond between the cast members and the fans. The show not only captivated audiences with its engaging plot and beautiful visuals, but it also became a cultural touchstone. The actors frequently shared behind-the-scenes content, including their final filming day, creating a deeper connection with their fans.

The series' popularity spurred fan communities, online discussions, and fan-made content, further cementing its place in Hallyu history. The drama was tagged as one of the most searched dramas on Twitter, which is a testament to the show's widespread appeal and impact. It has become a classic in its genre, lauded for its ability to blend romance, comedy, and drama with a message of self-acceptance and personal growth. The series stands as a reflection of how the entertainment industry is able to address important societal issues. It explores themes of bullying, self-esteem, and the pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty.

The drama's success lies not only in its captivating storyline but also in the exceptional performances of the cast, and the dedicated production team. The casts chemistry and dedication to their roles brought the characters to life, creating a world that viewers could easily immerse themselves in. The show offered viewers a diverse range of emotions, from laughter and tears to excitement and anticipation.

Beyond the plot and the characters, "True Beauty" also gained notoriety for its fashion and makeup, becoming a trendsetter. The show also inspired viewers to appreciate the beauty of diverse personalities and to recognize the importance of inner beauty over external appearances. The production quality, including the cinematography and soundtrack, was also top-notch. The music perfectly complemented the emotional scenes, enhancing the viewing experience.

The drama offers more than just a romantic story; it dives into the complexities of teenage life, including friendships, family dynamics, and the pursuit of personal growth. The way the characters navigate their relationships, challenges, and self-discovery provides a sense of connection with the audience. It highlights the importance of inner beauty, self-acceptance, and mental health. Furthermore, the show explores how social media and online interactions affect young people and their self-perception. Its a contemporary drama that mirrors real-life issues.

The success of "True Beauty" underscores the global appeal of Korean dramas, the so-called Hallyu wave. With its blend of relatable themes, attractive cast members, and well-crafted production, the series has expanded its global audience. The show has also become a cultural phenomenon, which increased interest in Korean language, culture, fashion, and beauty. This international success is a testament to the quality and appeal of Korean dramas, and "True Beauty" continues to be a cherished series for countless fans worldwide.

For those looking to delve into the world of "True Beauty," there are numerous avenues to explore. Many streaming services offer the series with subtitles in various languages, providing accessibility to a global audience. Additionally, behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew are available online, giving fans a peek into the making of the show. The webtoon version is also available, which offers a different way to enjoy the story.

True Beauty has left a lasting legacy on the world of entertainment and continues to resonate with audiences. The shows popularity and its ability to connect with viewers is a testament to its storytelling quality, the excellent performances, and its themes of self-acceptance and personal growth. The drama will likely continue to be a source of enjoyment and inspiration for many.