She Was Pretty (2015)

The story begins with Kim Hye-jin, a bright and cheerful girl who is the daughter of the president of a fashion magazine. She is beautiful and popular in her youth, but after her father's company goes bankrupt, her family's status declines. Hye-jin's appearance changes drastically as she grows up; she becomes overweight and loses her confidence. Meanwhile, her childhood friend, Ji Sung-joon, is a chubby boy who is bullied for his looks. He eventually transforms into a handsome and successful editor at a fashion magazine.

Years later, Hye-jin is now working at a low-paying job in a publishing company. She learns that Sung-joon is back in Korea and is now the editor-in-chief of a prestigious fashion magazine called "The Most." Hye-jin is excited to reconnect with him but is embarrassed about her appearance. She decides to ask her best friend, Min Ha-ri, to pretend to be her when they meet. Ha-ri is beautiful and confident, and Hye-jin believes that this will help Sung-joon remember her fondly.

When Hye-jin and Sung-joon finally meet, Ha-ri pretends to be Hye-jin, and Sung-joon is smitten by her beauty. Hye-jin watches from a distance, feeling a mix of happiness for her friend and sadness for herself. As the days go by, Sung-joon becomes more involved with Ha-ri, unaware of the deception. Hye-jin struggles with her feelings of jealousy and guilt, knowing that she is deceiving her childhood friend.

As the story progresses, Hye-jin continues to work at the publishing company while trying to maintain the facade. She often encounters Sung-joon, who is oblivious to her true identity. Hye-jin's internal conflict deepens as she grapples with her self-esteem issues and her desire to be loved for who she truly is. Meanwhile, Ha-ri begins to develop feelings for Sung-joon, complicating the situation further.

One day, Hye-jin accidentally reveals her true identity to Sung-joon during a chance encounter. He is shocked and feels betrayed, leading to a confrontation between them. Hye-jin explains her reasons for hiding her identity, and Sung-joon struggles to reconcile his feelings for both Hye-jin and Ha-ri. This revelation causes a rift between the three characters, and Hye-jin decides to distance herself from both of them to avoid further complications.

As the story unfolds, Hye-jin begins to regain her confidence and starts to embrace her true self. She takes steps to improve her appearance and self-worth, which leads to a transformation both physically and emotionally. Meanwhile, Sung-joon realizes that he has feelings for Hye-jin, but he is still conflicted due to his relationship with Ha-ri.

In a pivotal moment, Sung-joon confronts Hye-jin about his feelings, and they share a heartfelt conversation about their past and the changes they have undergone. Hye-jin expresses her desire to be accepted for who she is, and Sung-joon acknowledges his love for her. However, he is still torn between his feelings for Hye-jin and his loyalty to Ha-ri.

The climax of the story occurs when Ha-ri, feeling hurt and betrayed, decides to step back and allow Sung-joon to pursue his feelings for Hye-jin. She realizes that true love cannot be forced and that both Hye-jin and Sung-joon deserve a chance at happiness together. This decision leads to a reconciliation between Hye-jin and Sung-joon, where they finally acknowledge their feelings for each other.

In the final scenes, Hye-jin and Sung-joon begin a new chapter in their relationship, embracing their past and looking forward to a future together. Hye-jin's transformation is complete, not just in appearance but in her self-acceptance and confidence. The series concludes with a sense of hope and renewal, as the characters have grown and learned to love themselves and each other.

In the ending of "She Was Pretty," Ji Sung-joon and Kim Hye-jin finally confront their feelings for each other. After a series of misunderstandings and emotional turmoil, they reconcile and express their love. The series concludes with a hopeful note as they embark on a new chapter together, while other characters also find their resolutions.

As the final episode unfolds, the tension between Ji Sung-joon and Kim Hye-jin reaches its peak. The scene opens in the bustling office of the magazine where they both work. Hye-jin, having faced numerous challenges and insecurities throughout the series, stands at her desk, her heart racing as she contemplates her feelings for Sung-joon. The camera captures her anxious expression, reflecting her internal struggle. She has been through a journey of self-discovery, and now she must confront the truth of her emotions.

Meanwhile, Sung-joon, who has transformed from an awkward, overweight boy into a successful and handsome editor, is grappling with his own feelings. He has been torn between his past and present, and the weight of his childhood memories of Hye-jin looms large. As he walks through the office, he catches a glimpse of Hye-jin, and a wave of nostalgia washes over him. The music swells, emphasizing the emotional stakes of the moment.

In a pivotal scene, Sung-joon finally approaches Hye-jin. The atmosphere is charged with unspoken words. He takes a deep breath, his eyes searching hers for understanding. "I've been looking for you," he admits, his voice steady yet vulnerable. Hye-jin's heart skips a beat, and she feels a mix of hope and fear. She has longed for this moment, yet doubts creep in.

As they talk, the scene shifts to a flashback of their childhood, where they shared innocent moments of friendship. The juxtaposition of their younger selves with their current selves highlights the depth of their connection. Hye-jin recalls the promise they made to each other, and the weight of that promise hangs in the air.

Back in the present, Hye-jin finally confesses her feelings, her voice trembling with emotion. "I've always loved you," she says, tears brimming in her eyes. Sung-joon, taken aback, feels a rush of relief and joy. He steps closer, his expression softening. "I love you too," he replies, his voice filled with sincerity. The moment is electric, and the tension that has built throughout the series dissipates as they embrace, sealing their love with a heartfelt hug.

The scene transitions to a montage of their life together post-reconciliation. They are shown enjoying simple moments--laughing over coffee, walking hand in hand through the city, and sharing quiet evenings at home. The visuals are warm and inviting, symbolizing their newfound happiness.

Meanwhile, other characters also find their resolutions. Hye-jin's best friend, Min Ha-ri, who has been a source of support throughout the series, finally confronts her own feelings for a colleague, leading to a sweet moment of mutual affection. The camera captures their shy smiles and the warmth of their connection, reinforcing the theme of love and friendship.

As the series draws to a close, the final scene features Hye-jin and Sung-joon standing together on a rooftop, overlooking the city skyline. The sun sets in the background, casting a golden hue over the scene. They share a quiet moment, reflecting on their journey. Hye-jin leans her head on Sung-joon's shoulder, a content smile on her face. "We made it," she whispers, and he nods, his heart full.

The screen fades to black, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and fulfillment. Each character has found their path, and the story concludes with the message that love, resilience, and self-acceptance can lead to happiness.

In the 2015 television series "She Was Pretty," there is no post-credit scene. The series concludes with a heartfelt finale that wraps up the main storylines and character arcs. The final episode focuses on the resolution of the romantic tension between the main characters, Ji Sung-joon and Kim Hye-jin, as they confront their feelings for each other after a long journey of misunderstandings and personal growth.

The last scenes depict a sense of closure, with the characters finding happiness and acceptance in their relationships and themselves. The absence of a post-credit scene allows the audience to reflect on the emotional journey of the characters without any additional content. The series ends on a hopeful note, emphasizing themes of love, self-acceptance, and the importance of inner beauty.

Ji Sung-joon and Kim Hye-jin share a complex relationship that evolves significantly throughout the series. Initially, they were childhood friends, with Hye-jin being the chubby girl who was deeply in love with the handsome Sung-joon. However, after years apart, when they reunite, Sung-joon has transformed into a successful and attractive editor, while Hye-jin struggles with her self-image and has become less confident. Their relationship is marked by misunderstandings, emotional turmoil, and the struggle to reconcile their past with their present selves. As the series progresses, they navigate their feelings for each other, leading to moments of both tension and tenderness.

Kim Hye-jin's appearance plays a crucial role in her interactions with others throughout the series. Initially, she is portrayed as insecure and self-conscious about her looks, especially when compared to her childhood friend, Ji Sung-joon, who has become conventionally attractive. This insecurity leads her to hide her true identity from Sung-joon when they reunite, as she fears rejection. Her struggles with self-esteem are evident in her interactions with colleagues, particularly with her rival, Min Ha-ri, who embodies the beauty standards Hye-jin feels she cannot meet. As Hye-jin begins to embrace her true self, her confidence grows, impacting her relationships positively.

Min Ha-ri serves as both a friend and a rival to Kim Hye-jin in 'She Was Pretty.' Initially, she appears supportive, helping Hye-jin navigate her insecurities and the challenges of working at the magazine. However, as the story unfolds, Ha-ri's jealousy and ambition become apparent, particularly regarding her feelings for Ji Sung-joon. She often undermines Hye-jin, creating tension and conflict between them. Ha-ri's character embodies the societal pressures of beauty and success, which further complicates Hye-jin's journey toward self-acceptance. Their rivalry ultimately leads to significant character development for both women, as they confront their insecurities and the nature of their friendship.

Ji Sung-joon's realization of his feelings for Kim Hye-jin unfolds gradually through several key moments in the series. Initially, he is unaware of Hye-jin's true identity and is drawn to her kindness and authenticity. As he witnesses her struggles with self-esteem and her efforts to support others, he begins to see her inner beauty. Significant moments include their shared experiences at work, where Hye-jin's dedication and passion shine through, and the emotional confrontations that reveal her vulnerabilities. A pivotal scene occurs when Sung-joon learns the truth about Hye-jin's identity, leading to a mix of shock, regret, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of his feelings for her. This realization is marked by a blend of confusion and longing, as he grapples with the contrast between his past and present perceptions of love.

The theme of identity is central to Kim Hye-jin's character arc in 'She Was Pretty.' At the beginning of the series, Hye-jin struggles with her self-image, feeling overshadowed by societal beauty standards and her own insecurities. Her decision to hide her true identity from Ji Sung-joon reflects her internal conflict and fear of rejection. As the story progresses, Hye-jin embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning to embrace her unique qualities and redefine her sense of worth beyond physical appearance. Key moments, such as her interactions with supportive friends and her professional achievements, contribute to her growth. Ultimately, Hye-jin's journey culminates in her acceptance of herself, allowing her to confront her past and build a more authentic relationship with Sung-joon.

"She Was Pretty" is generally considered a romantic comedy and is suitable for a family audience, but it does contain some elements that may be objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are a few aspects to consider:

1. Bullying and Insecurity: The show explores themes of bullying and self-esteem, particularly in the context of physical appearance. Characters experience emotional distress related to their looks, which may resonate negatively with sensitive viewers.

2. Romantic Relationships: There are various romantic entanglements and misunderstandings that may include jealousy and heartbreak, which could be upsetting for younger viewers.

3. Workplace Dynamics: The series portrays some competitive and sometimes harsh dynamics in a workplace setting, including instances of manipulation and rivalry among colleagues.

4. Family Issues: There are moments that touch on family relationships and the complexities of parental expectations, which may evoke emotional responses.

5. Mild Language: While not excessive, there are instances of mild language that may not be suitable for very young children.

Overall, while the show is light-hearted and comedic, these elements may require parental guidance for younger audiences.