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Rediscovering Bel Ami (2013): A Journey of Charm, Growth, and Unexpected Depth
Korean dramas often weave stories that touch the heart in unique ways, combining romance, comedy, and a reflection of life’s deeper truths. Among the many dramas that aired during the early 2010s, Bel Ami (also known as Pretty Man) from 2013 holds a special place for viewers who appreciate lighthearted storytelling with layers of meaning beneath its playful surface. Starring Jang Geun-suk and IU, the drama is remembered for its unusual premise, striking performances, and subtle commentary on ambition, relationships, and personal growth.
In this post, we’ll take a calm journey into the world of Bel Ami, reflecting on its story, characters, themes, and the reasons why it still resonates with audiences even years after its release.
A Brief Overview of Bel Ami
At its core, Bel Ami tells the story of Dokgo Ma-te (played by Jang Geun-suk), a man renowned for his almost otherworldly good looks. His beauty is his strongest weapon, and he uses it to charm wealthy women as a means to climb the social ladder. While his initial pursuits revolve around superficial goals—fame, money, and influence—his life takes a turn when he meets Kim Bo-tong (played by IU), an ordinary yet deeply kind-hearted young woman who has admired him for years.
The drama’s title, Bel Ami, meaning “Beautiful Man” in French, captures the essence of Ma-te’s journey. While it begins as a light exploration of how far beauty and charm can take someone, the narrative gradually unfolds into something more thoughtful, exploring what true success, happiness, and love really mean.
Characters Who Carry the Story
Dokgo Ma-te
Jang Geun-suk’s portrayal of Ma-te is both charming and layered. At first glance, Ma-te may seem shallow—a man who depends solely on his looks to achieve his goals. But as the story progresses, viewers see a more vulnerable side of him. His ambition stems from a desire to overcome the hardships of his past, including the absence of his father and the struggles his family endured. Through his encounters with various women, Ma-te learns lessons about business, relationships, and life itself.
Kim Bo-tong
IU’s Bo-tong is the heart of the drama. Her name literally means “ordinary,” and she embraces that role wholeheartedly. Unlike the glamorous women Ma-te surrounds himself with, Bo-tong represents sincerity and perseverance. She may lack wealth or status, but her unshakable loyalty, optimism, and genuine affection gradually remind Ma-te of what truly matters. Bo-tong’s presence grounds the story, balancing Ma-te’s dazzling yet unstable world.
The Women of Influence
An interesting narrative device in Bel Ami is Ma-te’s encounters with ten influential women, each teaching him something valuable. From business acumen to personal resilience, their lessons shape his transformation. These characters are not merely plot devices; they represent different perspectives on success, independence, and empowerment. Through them, Ma-te learns that beauty alone cannot guarantee stability or happiness.
Themes That Shine Through
The Allure and Limitations of Beauty
The drama begins by highlighting society’s obsession with appearance. Ma-te’s beauty gives him opportunities that others might never have, but it also creates shallow connections and fleeting relationships. As the story develops, the drama reminds viewers that while looks may open doors, they cannot sustain meaningful growth or relationships.
Ambition and Growth
Ma-te’s journey is one of gradual self-discovery. His ambition, though selfish at first, becomes more grounded as he learns from his mistakes. The drama portrays growth not as a sudden transformation but as a series of small realizations, often inspired by the women he encounters and the unwavering presence of Bo-tong.
Ordinary Yet Extraordinary Love
One of the most calming and heartwarming aspects of Bel Ami is its depiction of love. Bo-tong’s love for Ma-te is not grand or flashy; it is steady, patient, and resilient. Through her, the drama suggests that love is not about perfection or glamour but about acceptance and sincerity. Their relationship, though slow to blossom, feels natural and comforting, offering a gentle reminder that true love often grows quietly in the background.
Performances and Chemistry
The casting of Jang Geun-suk and IU brought together two very different styles that ultimately complemented each other. Jang Geun-suk, known for his charismatic presence, embodied Ma-te’s duality—the confident exterior and the vulnerable interior. IU, on the other hand, brought a sense of innocence and warmth that made Bo-tong a character easy to root for.
Their chemistry may not have been fiery or dramatic, but it was calm and steady, reflecting the gradual development of their relationship. This understated connection gave the drama its unique charm, making it less about instant passion and more about enduring affection.
The Calm Energy of the Drama
Unlike many fast-paced or intensely dramatic series, Bel Ami carries a more relaxed energy. The storytelling unfolds at a measured pace, allowing viewers to slowly immerse themselves in the characters’ world. The drama balances humor, light romance, and gentle life lessons without overwhelming the audience.
Its calm tonality makes it an easy watch for those who prefer dramas that do not rely on heavy conflict or extreme twists. Instead, it invites viewers to reflect quietly alongside the characters, making it perfect for evenings when one simply wants to unwind.
Why Bel Ami Still Resonates
Though Bel Ami may not have reached the same level of popularity as other major dramas from its time, it continues to be remembered fondly by fans. Its appeal lies not in flashy plotlines or intense melodrama, but in its heartwarming simplicity.
The drama resonates because it mirrors the reality of many people’s lives. Not everyone’s journey is about grand battles or sweeping romances. Sometimes, growth comes from small lessons, and love develops quietly with patience and care. Bel Ami celebrates these truths, offering comfort to viewers who find beauty in life’s ordinary moments.
Final Thoughts
Bel Ami (2013) is a drama that may surprise you if you give it the time to unfold. What begins as a story about a beautiful man using his looks to climb the social ladder evolves into a calm exploration of ambition, love, and personal growth. Through Dokgo Ma-te’s transformation and Kim Bo-tong’s unwavering sincerity, the drama gently reminds us that true success lies not in appearances but in character, and that love, in its simplest form, is often the most extraordinary.
