“My ID is Gangnam Beauty” is a heartfelt Korean drama that explores the meaning of true beauty and self-acceptance. Based on the famous Naver Webtoon, this 2018 JTBC series captivated audiences with its honest portrayal of South Korea’s beauty-driven culture. Starring Im Soo-hyang and Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO), it delivers a touching message about learning to love oneself beyond appearances.
Story Summary in 5 Lines
Kang Mi-rae grows up being bullied for her looks and decides to undergo plastic surgery.
Starting university with a new face, she dreams of a fresh beginning but still feels insecure.
There, she meets Do Kyung-seok, a classmate who recognizes her true self from the past.
Though cold on the outside, Kyung-seok teaches Mi-rae what genuine beauty really means.
Through love and pain, Mi-rae learns to accept herself beyond appearances.
Main Characters
- Kang Mi-rae (Im Soo-hyang) — A shy chemistry major trying to overcome her insecurities.
- Do Kyung-seok (Cha Eun-woo) — A seemingly cold student with a warm heart who values sincerity.
- Hyun Soo-ah (Jo Woo-ri) — A “perfect beauty” struggling with jealousy and identity.
- Professor Yeon Woo-young (Kwak Dong-yeon) — A kind and understanding mentor to his students.
Main Cast & Instagram
Cha Eun-woo (as Do Kyung-seok)
A member of the K-pop group ASTRO and one of Korea’s most beloved actors, Cha Eun-woo is praised for both his flawless looks and emotional acting. In My ID is Gangnam Beauty, he plays a man who sees beyond appearance, portraying warmth and maturity beneath his stoic exterior — a role that earned him global recognition.
Im Soo-hyang (as Kang Mi-rae)
Im Soo-hyang delivers an authentic and moving performance as a woman rediscovering confidence and self-worth. Through her portrayal, she challenges Korea’s obsession with beauty and highlights the deeper message — that real beauty begins when we learn to love ourselves as we are.
Cultural Highlights for Global Viewers
① Korea’s Beauty Standards
The drama directly addresses South Korea’s “lookism” culture,
exploring the pressure to appear perfect and the emotional struggles that come with it.
Many international viewers praised it for showing the psychological side of the nation’s beauty ideals.
② Campus Life Romance
The series beautifully captures real Korean university life — festivals, friendships, and study life.
Many scenes were filmed at Sungshin Women’s University and Seoul’s popular spots,
making them must-visit destinations for K-drama fans.
③ The Meaning of Real Beauty
What impressed international fans most is the show’s message:
beauty isn’t about perfection but about confidence and kindness.
It connects with a universal audience seeking authenticity in a filtered world.
Filming Locations You Can Visit
- Sungshin Women’s University — Main campus scenes.
- Hongdae Street, Seoul — Café and hangout scenes.
- North Seoul Museum of Art — Reflection and introspection scenes.
- Hangang Park — Emotional turning points between the leads.
Original Soundtrack (OST)
The “My ID is Gangnam Beauty” OST is filled with warmth and emotional melodies. Notable tracks include “Something in Your Eyes” by The ADE, “Love Diamond” by Suho, and “A Love That Can’t Be”. Each song mirrors Mi-rae’s emotional journey and adds depth to the story. Click the button below to enjoy the full album on YouTube Music.
Final Thoughts — Redefining Beauty
“My ID is Gangnam Beauty” is more than just a romance; it’s a social reflection on how we define beauty and self-worth. The show’s universal message — that kindness and self-love outshine perfection — resonates with viewers from every culture. With heartfelt performances and relatable storytelling, this drama continues to inspire people around the world to love themselves without comparison.
