When I first encountered the webtoon True Beauty, I was hooked by its intriguing story and relatable characters. This webtoon was the gateway that led me into the world of webtoons. While I had stumbled upon True Beauty through a YouTube video, it was Lookism that truly ignited my passion for webtoons. True Beauty tells the story of an ordinary girl, Jugyeong Lim, who is bullied for her appearance, only to transform into a “goddess” through makeup. However, her drastic makeover causes a huge dilemma, as no one recognizes her without it. This transformation brings to light how deeply society values physical appearance, especially in places like South Korea, where looks can matter more than education or qualifications, even when it comes to landing a job.
While the True Beauty Kdrama adaptation received mixed reviews, I highly recommend reading the webtoon to get the full experience. In this post, however, I won’t be discussing the Kdrama cast, as it received some backlash for the casting choices. Instead, let’s take a closer look at some real-life figures who could be considered True Beauty characters in their own right.
So, are you ready to discover some of the most stunning real-life true beauty characters? Let’s dive in!
Real Life True Beauty Characters
10. Yaongyi as Jugyeong Lim
Yaongyi is the talented author and artist behind True Beauty, and she based the character of Jugyeong Lim on her own image. Fans were thrilled when Yaongyi’s face was revealed, as it mirrored Jugyeong’s appearance. As a model and someone passionate about fashion and makeup, Yaongyi’s real-life beauty perfectly fits the transformation theme in True Beauty. Her own passion for drawing and creating trends influenced the way Jugyeong’s character was portrayed, making her an ideal choice for the list of real-life true beauty characters.
9. Lee Taeyong (NCT) as Suho Lee
As a member of NCT and the leader of SuperM, Lee Taeyong has the kind of charm and appeal that mirrors Suho Lee from True Beauty. His sharp jawline and gentle demeanor make him a perfect match for the character. Suho is the first person to see Jugyeong’s bare face and is kind and accepting of her, something that Lee Taeyong exudes in real life with his caring personality.
8. Kwon Hyun-bin (JBJ) as Seojun Han
Kwon Hyun-bin, known by his stage name Viini, has the perfect features and aura to play Seojun Han. Seojun is another major character in the True Beauty love triangle, initially showing a rough exterior but later revealing a soft side. Kwon’s real-life persona matches Seojun’s transformation in the story, making him a prime candidate for this list of true beauty characters.
7. Irene (Red Velvet) as Selena Lee
Irene, the leader of the girl group Red Velvet, has the same graceful and elegant beauty that matches the character of Selena Lee. Selena is a famous makeup artist and Suho’s older sister. She is confident and elegant, with a caring personality that makes her a role model for Jugyeong. Irene’s gorgeous looks and poise make her a real-life match for this character.
6. Heejin (LOONA) as Sujin Kang
Heejin from LOONA has a look that is strikingly similar to Sujin Kang, a character from True Beauty. Sujin is initially a popular girl in school who undergoes a transformation of her own after being bullied. Heejin’s beauty and presence match Sujin’s transformation in the story, making her a fitting real-life true beauty character.
5. Wheein (Mamamoo) as Heegyeong Lim
Wheein from Mamamoo possesses the same radiant charm that matches Jugyeong’s older sister, Heegyeong Lim. Heegyeong, often seen as more traditionally beautiful than her younger sister, helps Jugyeong navigate the complexities of their family relationships. Wheein’s lovely features and sweet nature make her the perfect embodiment of this character.
4. Yoo Jeong-Yeon (Twice) as Sua Kang
Yoo Jeong-Yeon, or Jeongyeon, is a member of Twice, and her strong, caring demeanor perfectly reflects Sua Kang’s character in True Beauty. Sua is Jugyeong’s supportive best friend, always ready to stand by her side, and Jeongyeon’s kind-hearted and energetic personality makes her the perfect choice for the role of Sua.
3. Yeo Jooha as Gowoon Han
Yeo Jooha portrayed Gowoon Han in the True Beauty Kdrama, and her look-alike status is undeniable. Gowoon is Seojun’s sister, and Yeo’s portrayal of her brought out the character’s elegance and kindness, making her a true representation of this beloved character from the webtoon.
2. Minhyuk (Monsta X) as Woohyun Ji
Minhyuk of Monsta X is known for his striking visuals, making him the perfect real-life counterpart to Woohyun Ji, a manipulative and charming character in True Beauty. Minhyuk’s charming smile and charismatic stage presence reflect Woohyun’s ability to charm and deceive, making him a fitting real-life true beauty character.
- Jaemin (NCT) as Aiden Kim
Jaemin from NCT has a soft, approachable look that closely matches Aiden Kim from True Beauty. Aiden is a friendly, outgoing character who quickly becomes close friends with Jugyeong. Jaemin’s cute, youthful features and easygoing personality mirror Aiden’s playful nature, making him a great fit for this list.
The True Beauty webtoon has captured the hearts of many, with its powerful message about the impact of physical appearance and self-esteem. While the Kdrama adaptation may not have lived up to everyone’s expectations, the real-life counterparts of these beloved characters truly embody the essence of True Beauty. These individuals, whether through their looks, personalities, or shared traits with their webtoon counterparts, show us that true beauty comes in many forms, and it isn’t always about how someone looks on the outside. As we embrace the real-life characters who resemble the figures we’ve come to love, let’s remember the true message of the story: it’s not about looks, but about who you are inside.
Dev King is a passionate fan of manga, manhwa, and webtoons, with a love for Korean, Japanese, and Chinese cartoons. Always exploring new worlds and stories, he finds joy in every unique style and plot twist.
