Reflections on a Korean Webtoon Exploring Teen Girl’s Struggles

Recently, I discovered a Korean webtoon that delved into the challenges and insecurities faced by teenage girls. This webtoon emerged after the release of the corresponding Korean drama, and it resonated with me on a profound level. According to research, about seven out of ten teenage girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in various aspects of their lives, including their looks, performance, and relationships. These insecurities are vividly portrayed in both the webtoon and the drama, highlighting the issues that many young girls face.

Role of Makeup in Teenage Girls' Confidence

While makeup is often associated with enhancing a woman's attractiveness, its impact extends beyond mere physical appearance. Makeup plays a critical role in a teenager's ability to form new relationships and socialize. However, many girls make the mistake of overusing makeup, which can diminish its benefits. When applied in moderation, makeup makes individuals appear more likeable, trustworthy, and competent, thereby boosting their self-esteem and confidence.

Research into the 'lipstick effect' indicates that wearing makeup can have a positive psychological impact, enhancing an individual's self-image and confidence. This phenomenon can be particularly beneficial for teenage girls who are navigating the tumultuous world of adolescence.

Positive and Negative Aspects of the Love Story

While the webtoon’s portrayal of teenage girls' insecurities is compelling, the love story and romance aspects of the story left me with a mixed sentiment. The characters, particularly those in college, were often portrayed as immature, which is par for the course for this age group. The storyline was also lacking in depth and coherence, with dramatic scenes interspersed with moments of comedy.

Critical Reflections on the Characters and Plot

One of the main characters, Jugyeung, hasn’t developed much since the beginning of the story. Despite facing numerous challenges, Jugyeung remains fixated on her appearance, covering her face with makeup. I had hoped that over the course of the story, Jugyeung would begin to accept herself and grow in confidence. Unfortunately, this did not happen. After breaking up with Suho, another male lead, Jugyeung entered a relationship with Seojun, despite knowing that it would be detrimental to her own well-being.

Seojun, the second male lead, demonstrated admirable qualities by taking extra jobs to support himself and provide a decent dinner for Jugyeung. His dedication can be seen as a positive development in the story, but I was disappointed by Jugyeung's inconsistency. The hard work and sacrifices Seojun made for Jugyeung seem to have been in vain, particularly after the breakup, which left him with nothing.

Ultimately, I believe that Jugyeung needs to work on herself before she can truly find happiness with anyone. She should focus on accepting her true self, building confidence, and judging others based on substance rather than appearance. A more balanced and realistic portrayal of her character’s growth could have made for a more satisfying story.

In conclusion, while the webtoon masterfully captures the struggles and insecurities of teenage girls, it falls short in its ability to portray a compelling and realistic love story. As a fan of the genre, I hope that future installments address these shortcomings and offer a more authentic glimpse into the lives of young girls navigating the complexities of adolescence.