She Was Pretty is a 2015 South Korean romantic comedy television series that aired on MBC from September 16 to November 11, 2015. The show consists of 16 episodes and was directed by Jung Dae-yoon, with a script written by Jo Sung-hee. It features a star-studded cast including Hwang Jung-eum, Park Seo-joon, Go Joon-hee, and Choi Si-won. The series was well-received both domestically and internationally, achieving a peak rating of 18.4% and gaining significant popularity in countries like China.
The plot revolves around Kim Hye-jin, played by Hwang Jung-eum, who was once a beautiful girl from a wealthy family. However, after her family's publishing company goes bankrupt, she faces hardships that lead to her losing her former beauty and confidence. In contrast, her childhood friend Ji Sung-joon, portrayed by Park Seo-joon, was an unattractive boy with low self-esteem but grows up to become a handsome and successful editor at a fashion magazine. When Sung-joon returns to South Korea after many years, he seeks to reconnect with Hye-jin, but she is embarrassed by her current appearance and circumstances.
To avoid disappointing Sung-joon, Hye-jin asks her attractive best friend Ha-ri (Go Joon-hee) to meet him in her place. This decision sets off a chain of events filled with misunderstandings and comedic situations as Hye-jin navigates her new role as an intern at the magazine where Sung-joon works. As the story unfolds, Hye-jin's true identity is kept secret from Sung-joon, leading to complications when he begins to develop feelings for both women.
The series effectively combines humor with heartfelt moments, addressing themes of self-esteem, friendship, and the impact of physical appearance on relationships. The chemistry between the lead characters has been particularly praised, contributing to the show's charm and relatability. Additionally, Choi Si-won plays Kim Shin-hyuk, a colleague at the magazine who becomes a supportive friend to Hye-jin and adds depth to the romantic dynamics of the story.
She Was Pretty has received numerous accolades, including awards for Best Actress (Hwang Jung-eum) and Excellent Actor (Park Seo-joon) at the 2015 MBC Drama Awards. Its engaging storyline and relatable characters have left a lasting impression on viewers, making it a beloved entry in the realm of K-dramas. The series not only entertains but also offers insights into personal growth and the importance of inner beauty over superficial appearances.