Ugly Alert is a heartwarming and uplifting drama that beautifully explores the journey of self-acceptance amidst overwhelming family and personal challenges. This drama mixes elements of family dynamics, romance, and comedy, making it a perfect choice for viewers seeking a show that balances humor with emotional depth. Despite dealing with themes of insecurity and personal growth, the show’s nature allows it to feel lighter, even in its most difficult moments.
The Story: A Journey of Self-Acceptance Amidst Tragedy
The plot centers on Lee Soon Shin (Han Hye Rin), a woman struggling with self-esteem issues due to being labeled “ugly” all her life. The narrative takes us through her emotional struggles as she faces prejudice and hardship. Along the way, she meets Doo Soo (Choi Jin Hyuk), a man who has his own challenges but gradually becomes a support for Soon Shin. Their relationship evolves, but it’s not without difficulty.
The drama presents a full house of tragedies and hardships that befall Soon Shin’s family, which could feel overwhelming at first. However, the characters’ nature and relationships will guide viewers through the sorrowful moments, making the painful parts of the story more bearable. Despite the unfairness of many situations and the overwhelming difficulties, the characters’ growth and the show’s light-hearted moments bring comfort, making the drama a blend of poignant and heartwarming experiences.
There will be tears, yes—many of them—but the show has an underlying warmth that makes the tough moments easier to endure. It’s not only about the characters’ pain, but how they cope with it and help each other overcome their struggles.
The Cast: Strong Performances
- Choi Jin Hyuk as Doo Soo
- Choi Jin Hyuk, known for his roles in The Heirs (2013) and Fated to Love You (2014), brings a lot of sincerity to the role of Doo Soo. His gentle and supportive nature makes him the perfect counterpart to Soon Shin. His performance is filled with subtlety, and his chemistry with Han Hye Rin enriches their slow-burn romance.
- Han Hye Rin as Lee Soon Shin
- Han Hye Rin portrays the emotionally complex role of Soon Shin, a woman struggling with both external judgment and her own inner insecurities. Known for her role in Here Comes Mr. Oh (2016), Han Hye Rin delivers a touching performance that captures the essence of a character learning to accept herself.
- Kang Bu Ja as Soon Shin’s Mother
- Kang Bu Ja brings depth to the role of Soon Shin’s mother. As a loving yet sometimes controlling figure, she plays an important part in the family drama. Her character adds a layer of complexity, as her love for her daughter sometimes manifests in difficult ways.
A Blend of Heart, Humor, and Tragedy
While the drama’s central themes are heavy, Ugly Alert manages to infuse lightness into the darker moments. It balances its emotional weight with humor and heartfelt moments, offering a refreshing perspective on overcoming hardship. The show’s exploration of family relationships, especially the strong bond between Soon Shin and her family, provides an emotional anchor to the story.
The unfairness at the heart of the drama, combined with the characters’ growth and resilience, offers a powerful, if at times tear-jerking, message of hope and strength. The pacing is steady, and as the characters evolve, so does the tone of the series, allowing viewers to feel the impact of the story without being overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
Ugly Alert is a drama that tugs at your heartstrings while also leaving you with a sense of hope. It’s a well-rounded show that mixes family drama, romance, and comedy to deliver a touching story about self-worth and overcoming life’s hardships. While it might be hard to handle at times, the characters’ journey makes it all worthwhile. If you’re looking for a drama that will make you both laugh and cry, Ugly Alert is definitely worth watching.