Top 10 Anime Series for Fans of True Beauty

The fresh anime adaptation of the popular Korean webtoon True Beauty has captivated audiences with its distinct narrative that follows Lim Jugyeong on a compelling quest toward self-acceptance and confidence. With its dazzling visuals, the series delves into the importance of embracing one’s authentic self above societal beauty norms.

If you resonate with the themes presented in True Beauty or simply enjoy its enchanting blend of romantic comedy, you’re in luck. There’s an abundance of anime that delves into self-acceptance, kindness, and personal growth beyond mere appearances.

From eccentric high school comedies to poignant sci-fi dramas, the following ten anime share the heartfelt essence of True Beauty and deserve a spot on your viewing list. Prepare to experience laughter, tears, and stories filled with meaning that will resonate with any admirer of Jugyeong’s journey.

Note: The content below is speculative.

Top 10 Anime Recommendations for True Beauty Fans

1. Friendship

Kimi ni Todoke (Image via Production IG)

Kimi ni Todoke presents an uplifting tale of hope, centering on the life of Sawako Kuronuma, a kind yet misunderstood high school girl who is mistakenly feared due to her ghostly resemblance to a character from The Ring.

Outcast by her peers, Sawako’s solitary existence takes a turn when she befriends a popular classmate, Shouta Kazehaya. Her gradual transformation from a shy introvert to a more confident individual embodies an inspiring narrative that highlights the idea that outward appearances do not define worth.

Her path toward cherished friendships aligns with True Beauty’s mantra of recognizing the positive in others despite rumors. With an evocative soundtrack and relatable characters, Kimi ni Todoke is a must-watch.

2. My Little Monster

My Little Monster (Image via Brain's Base) — My Little Monster (Image via Brain’s Base)

My Little Monster is a delightful slice-of-life comedy that resonates with True Beauty aficionados through its quirky romance, featuring the polarizing relationship between Shizuku Mizutani and Haru Yoshida.

As a high-achiever with limited social skills, Shizuku’s life turns chaotic when she delivers assignments to her classmate Haru, who is rumored to be a troublesome delinquent. However, his unexpectedly gentle nature upends her assumptions.

Much like True Beauty’s exploration of how inner character can defy external perceptions, Haru’s caring nature stands in stark contrast to his tough exterior. Through her relationship with Haru, Shizuku embarks on her own path of transformation.

3. Lovely★Complex

Lovely★Complex (Image via Toei Animation)

Fans of a charming romantic comedy highlighting a tall female and short male dynamic will find joy in Lovely★Complex.

Risa Koizumi, notably taller than most Japanese girls, grapples with her height insecurities, especially beside her small best friend. Her life begins to look up when she develops feelings for the short yet unexpected Atsushi Otani.

This series, filled with humor and emotional moments, echoes True Beauty’s themes of understanding insecurities and fostering body positivity. Risa and her bestie Nobu’s bond will surely resonate with fans of Jugyeong and Soo-ah’s friendship.

4. Horimia

For a more realistic slice-of-life experience reminiscent of True Beauty, don’t overlook Horimiya. This sweet narrative follows Kyoko Hori and Izumi Miyamura, two high school students with unexpected secrets that lie beneath their ordinary facades.

The show emphasizes that there’s much more than meets the eye. Similar to Jugyeong’s journey of recognizing that makeup isn’t all that matters, Hori and Miyamura each embrace their authentic selves beyond physical appearances, making for an engaging viewing experience.

5. Orange

Orange (Image via Telecom Animation Film)

If you relate to Jugyeong’s hidden pain stemming from self-doubt, the emotional sci-fi drama Orange offers an intense narrative focusing on themes of regret and self-forgiveness.

Naho receives a mysterious letter from her future self, warning her about potential regrets, prompting her to change her actions to protect her friend Kakeru from impending tragedy.

This impactful portrayal of anxiety, depression, and survivor’s guilt aligns with True Beauty’s honest dissection of bullying and self-image, complemented by a thrilling time-bending twist.

6. Ao Haru Ride

For a gentle, nostalgic school romance akin to True Beauty, Ao Haru Ride is a must-see. Futaba Yoshioka faces her own insecurities when she unexpectedly crosses paths with her first love, Kou Mabuchi, years after their initial encounter, now bearing a tarnished reputation.

Just like Jugyeong, Futaba has dealt with the jealousy of girls who envied her popularity with boys, leading her to adopt a guarded demeanor for protection. However, reopening herself to others proves to be a daunting task.

With its beautiful animation and soothing score, Ao Haru Ride captures the delicate essence of youthful romance.

7. Fruits Basket (2019)

Fruits Basket (2019) (Image via TMS Entertainment)

This latest adaptation of the beloved series Fruits Basket successfully brings the iconic family saga to life.

Your heart will be captured as orphan Tohru Honda discovers that several members of the Soma family transform into Zodiac animals when touched by the opposite sex, prompting her to vow secrecy.

Reflecting True Beauty’s themes of self-acceptance, many characters within the Soma family grapple with the emotional load of their unusual curse. Tohru’s unwavering compassion becomes a vital element in their healing process, making this series compelling.

8. Wolf Girl and Black Prince

Wolf Girl and Black Prince (Image via TYO Animations)

If you appreciate Jugyeong’s fictional romance in True Beauty, you’ll likely enjoy Wolf Girl and Black Prince. Here, Erika persuades the indifferent Kyoya to pretend to be her boyfriend to gain her friends’ admiration, only for him to treat her as his pet “dog.”

Despite the absurd setup, Wolf Girl and Black Prince echoes True Beauty’s exploration of external appearances versus the truth and delves into the nuances of authenticity and pretense. Just like Lim Jugyeong, Erika embarks on a personal journey to self-discovery, moving beyond the fear of judgment.

9. Kokoro Connect

Combining elements of drama and supernatural intrigue, Kokoro Connect follows five high school students who become intertwined when a mysterious force causes them to swap bodies unexpectedly. This leads to the eruption of long-buried emotions and hidden truths.

Much like True Beauty, which addresses the conflicts between societal roles and authentic self, Kokoro Connect’s body-swapping phenomenon reveals concealed internal battles. Each character’s journey through their emotional struggles brings insight and contemplation, making it a thought-provoking watch for fans of True Beauty.

10. Ouran High School Host Club

Ouran High School Host Club (Image via Bones)

For those seeking a light-hearted, humorous ensemble comedy, the iconic Ouran High School Host Club delivers a delightful experience.

When penniless Haruhi Fujioka accidentally destroys a precious vase, she finds herself entwined with the lavish hosts of her prestigious school’s Host Club. To repay her debt, she reluctantly masquerades as a male host.

This series brilliantly parodies superficiality and elitism reminiscent of True Beauty. You will adore Haruhi’s confidence as she navigates the eccentric world of elite boys, displaying a resilient and resourceful spirit much like Jugyeong’s finesse with makeup.

Conclusion

From high school comedies that explore found friendship like Kimi ni Todoke to gripping narratives about regret seen in Orange, there is an engaging watch for every True Beauty enthusiast.

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