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True Beauty

Here's what we found in True Beauty. Every family is different — get a report that reflects yours.

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General Review

Parent's Guide to True Beauty

True Beauty is a popular South Korean romantic comedy-drama adapted from a webtoon, focusing on Lim Ju-kyung, a high school student who experiences severe bullying due to her appearance. She learns to use makeup expertly, creating a 'goddess' persona for her new school. The series follows her journey of navigating a secret identity, forming friendships, dealing with a complex love triangle, and eventually learning to embrace her true self. While presenting a mostly lighthearted and humorous tone, the drama also addresses significant themes such as the societal pressures of beauty standards, the profound impact of bullying, and the importance of self-acceptance. The narrative blends comedic situations with emotional depth, exploring the universal anxieties and aspirations of adolescence.

Things to Consider

High1

Scary & Intense Content

The series contains emotionally intense content, primarily stemming from severe bullying and its psychological toll. This includes themes of suicidal ideation and the tragic death of a friend, which contribute to the emotional weight and dramatic tension.

Lim Ju-kyung's experience with bullying at her previous school is shown to be so traumatizing that it pushes her to the brink of suicide, being saved only by a stranger, Lee Su-ho, from jumping off a building. The tragic death of Jung Se-yeon, a mutual friend of Lee Su-ho and Han Seo-jun, is a significant and recurring source of trauma and guilt for both male leads, influencing their behavior and relationship throughout the series. This theme underscores the intense emotional suffering experienced by characters.

Would these 1 concern matter to your family?

Get a report based on your values — not generic ratings.

Medium5
LGBTQ & Gender IdentityViolenceRomance and Sexual ContentProfanityDisrespect & Rebellion
Low3
Witchcraft & OccultSubstance UseAnti-Christian Themes

Additional Context

Best For Ages

True Beauty is recommended for ages 14+. This recommendation is due to the presence of intense and emotionally charged themes such as severe bullying, verbal abuse, physical altercations, romantic relationships with kissing, and implied profanity. The series also touches on mental health struggles, including suicidal ideation stemming from bullying. While the drama offers positive messages about self-acceptance, its portrayal of these challenges requires a mature audience capable of discerning and processing such content.

Good to Know

The drama's core message about the importance of inner beauty and self-acceptance is a positive takeaway for young viewers, despite the difficult themes encountered. Parents should be aware that while the show is a romantic comedy, it delves into serious topics like bullying and mental health struggles which can be intense.

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