Korean dramas have an extraordinary ability to weave complex narratives that viewers can relate to deeply. One interesting sub-genre in the realm of Korean dramas is the exploration of the ugly to pretty transformation, where characters undergo an extraordinary metamorphosis from being labeled “ugly” to embracing their true beauty.
In this in-depth exploration, we’ll delve into the enchanting world of Korean dramas that portray the journey from “ugly to pretty,” celebrating the memorable makeovers that have become iconic in the realm of K-dramas.
List of Korean Dramas About Ugly to Pretty
1. The Heavenly Idol
In “The Heavenly Idol,” viewers are transported into a world where divine powers meet the challenges of the entertainment industry. Pontifex Rembrary, embodying Woo Yeon Woo, a member of an unpopular idol group, turns the group’s fortunes around after a disastrous performance.
This series masterfully combines charisma, divine powers, and challenges from the past, offering a unique take on the journey from obscurity to popularity.
Released in 2023 and has 12 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Kim Min Gue, Go Bo Gyeol, and Lee Jang Woo.
2. My ID Is Gangnam Beauty
“My ID Is Gangnam Beauty” delves into the transformative journey of Kang Mi Rae, once bullied for her appearance. After opting for plastic surgery, Mi Rae enters university, where she encounters Do Kyung Suk, a character who values inner beauty over outward appearances.
The K-drama beautifully unfolds the complexities of societal beauty standards and the discovery that true beauty emanates from within.
This one of the best Korean dramas about ugly to pretty was released in 2018 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Im Soo Hyang, Cha Eun Woo, Jo Woo Ri, and Kwak Dong Yeon.
3. Pinocchio
“Pinocchio” takes a different angle, focusing on Choi In Ha, a broadcast reporter with a unique condition. As she navigates her career alongside colleagues with varied backgrounds, the series explores the pursuit of justice and self-discovery.
Despite not being directly centered on physical transformations, “Pinocchio” intricately weaves a narrative about unmasking the truth and discovering one’s true self.
This makeover in K-drama was released in 2014 and has 20 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Lee Jong Suk, Park Shin Hye, Kim Young Kwang, Lee Yoo Bi.
4. True Beauty
In “True Beauty,” Lim Ju Gyeong rises to fame by mastering makeup techniques from YouTube. The drama explores the impact of societal expectations on appearance and the journey of self-discovery.
As Ju Gyeong’s love story unfolds with Lee Su Ho, the series emphasizes the transformative power of love and acceptance beyond physical beauty.
This one of the best Korean dramas about ugly to pretty was released in 2020 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Mun Ka Young, Cha Eun Woo, Hwang In Youp, and Park You Na.
5. Heirs
“Heirs” introduces Kim Tan, the heir to Empire Group, who falls for Cha Eun Sang, unknowingly the daughter of his family’s housekeeper.
While not a direct ugly-to-pretty transformation, the series navigates themes of social class and love, showcasing the internal struggles faced by characters torn between duty and personal emotions.
Released in 2013 and has 20 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Lee Min Ho, Park Shin Hye, and Kim Woo Bin.
6. She Was Pretty
A tale of unexpected twists, “She Was Pretty” follows Hye Jin’s journey from a cute young girl to a part-time clerk with a hidden identity. The K-drama explores the dynamics of friendship and love, incorporating elements of disguise and self-acceptance.
This one of the best Korean dramas about ugly to pretty was released in 2015 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Hwang Jung Eum, Park Seo Joon, Go Joon Hee, and Choi Si Won.
7. Healer
“Healer” introduces Seo Jung Hoo, a night courier known as “Healer.” The series unveils the mystery of shared pasts, putting characters in danger. While not directly related to physical transformations, “Healer” delves into uncovering hidden identities and the consequences of the past.
It was released in 2014 and has 20 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Ji Chang Wook, Park Min Young, and Yoo Ji Tae.
8. Shadow Beauty
“Shadow Beauty” explores the dual life of Koo Ae Jin, bullied at school but a social media star known as Genie. The drama navigates the challenges of maintaining a secret identity and the potential consequences when the truth is revealed.
This one of the best Korean dramas about ugly to pretty was released in 2021 and has 13 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Shim Dal Gi, Choi Bo Min, and Lee Na Gyung.
That’s the list of the best Korean dramas about ugly to pretty that you should watch. Thank you for reading this article, have a nice day!
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