True Beauty episode 1 review: Is this Korean take on real-life societal issues worth watching?

True Beauty episode 1, titled A Goddess Descends?!, was released on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. Also known as Yeosin Gangnim, this anime adapts the popular webtoon of the same name by Yaongyi.

The story centers on Jugyeong Lim and her transformative journey, leading to her double life. The debut episode introduces viewers to Jugyeong's story, setting up the foundation for her double identity, and ends with Suho Lee, one of the male leads, finding out her secret.

This True Beauty episode 1 review offers a detailed critique of the storyline, production quality, the performances of the cast and crew, and more, providing an in-depth analysis of this new Korean anime's debut in the drama-romance-comedy genre.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for True Beauty episode 1.

True Beauty episode 1 review: The rom-com story portrays real-life societal issues through a lighthearted narrative

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This new anime by Studio N and Cocktail Media is a rom-com that masterfully blends romance, comedy, drama, and slice-of-life elements. True Beauty episode 1 delivers a well-rounded introduction to the female protagonist, Lim Jugyeong. The debut episode portrays the transformation of Jugyeong’s life, which leads to her double identity.

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True Beauty episode 1: A brief synopsis with narrative criticism

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Jugyeong, a fan of heavy metal music and horror comics, is often isolated and bullied at school due to her appearance. These struggles ultimately lead her to transfer schools. However, in between changing schools, she stumbles upon a makeup tutorial channel that changes her life.

Armed with new makeup skills, Jugyeong undergoes a complete transformation, quickly becoming a sensation at her new school. Her newfound beauty earns her popularity and friends, a stark contrast to her previous school life. One day, Jugyeong runs into Lee Suho, one of the male leads, at a bookstore, and they have a brief argument.

Jugyeong getting bullied in True Beauty episode 1 (Image via Studio N, Cocktail Media)

She later discovers that Suho attends the same school but is relieved to find that he doesn’t recognize her from their previous encounter, where she wasn't wearing makeup. Jugyeong is then selected for her school's beauty contest, which boosts her popularity but also increases her anxiety about her secret being exposed.

In another bookstore encounter with Suho, Jugyeong, without makeup, accidentally loses one of her earbuds. Later, she joins a study group that includes Suho. He eventually identifies her true identity through the lost earbud he had picked up earlier. True Beauty episode 1 also briefly introduces the second male lead, Han Seojun.

Jugyeong makes new friends in True Beauty episode 1 (Image via Studio N, Cocktail Media)

True Beauty episode 1 effectively establishes the struggles of Jugyeong’s life, showing her transition from a bullied, "unattractive" student to a popular girl living in constant fear of her true self being exposed. While the debut episode does not feature romance elements, it lays the groundwork for the gradual development.

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It begins by highlighting her struggles as an outcast due to her appearance, depicting her lonely life and the harsh reality of bullying. While the shoujo anime presents an engaging transformation narrative, it also subtly critiques the current beauty standards of society.

The story reflects on the dark side of how women who don’t fit these standards are often marginalized and pressured to adopt trends like makeup to fit in.

Jugyeong encounters Suho with no makeup (Image via Studio N, Cocktail Media)

Although True Beauty is a work of fiction, it echoes real-life issues. However, it may be misinterpreted that conforming to societal standards is necessary to fit in.

Viewers should remember that makeup is a personal choice rather than a requirement for societal acceptance. Embracing one's own form of beauty is important, and true beauty is not solely defined by external appearances or societal norms.

True Beauty episode 1: Production, animation, soundtracks, and voice acting: A criticism

Jugyeong becomes popular (Image via Studio N, Cocktail Media)

True Beauty episode 1 showcases the high production quality of Studio N and Cocktail Media. The episode shines with its compelling storytelling and impressive animation, effectively capturing the essence of the source webtoon. The stunning animation especially stands out as a visual delight.

The character designs are equally impressive, vividly capturing their essence from the source manhwa and bringing them to life with remarkable accuracy. All the cast delivers remarkable performances. The voice actor portraying Jugyeong is particularly noteworthy, skillfully navigating the character's emotional depth and internal conflicts, bringing her struggles to life with nuance and precision.

Additionally, the soundtrack and background music significantly enhance the viewing experience, with the opening theme "My Highlight" by the talented Korean singer and actress Jo Yuri setting an ideal tone for the show.

To conclude

Suho uncovers Jugyeong's secret (Image via Studio N, Cocktail Media)

In summary, True Beauty episode 1 presents a real-life issue faced by many girls, delivering it through a charming and lighthearted drama narrative. While the narrative initially uses makeup as a tool for the female lead to fit in, it may evolve into a story where she ultimately embraces her true self, discovering genuine beauty without relying on makeup.

Beyond this, the anime remains an entertaining piece of fiction. The story is skillfully presented, effectively capturing the essence of Yaongyi’s webtoon through impressive animation and engaging storytelling.

Studio N and Cocktail Media offer a captivating and enjoyable experience, focusing on the female protagonist’s double life in a way that viewers are sure to find engaging and entertaining.

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Edited by Dishani Dutta