The show amassed 2.8 million views within just three days.
Netflix continues to unveil unique and groundbreaking content from around the world. Their latest K-Drama sensation, Mask Girl, is no exception. Not only does it shine a light on societal pressures and the dangerous lengths some might go to in their pursuit of beauty, but it also features an innovative approach: three different actresses portray the main character.
Mask Girl is a gripping adaptation of the Naver Webtoon series, which earned both praise and shock for its unnerving narrative on the harrowing consequences of “lookism.”
The story revolves around Momi, a woman so consumed by her perceived flaws that she resorts to drastic measures, such as undergoing multiple plastic surgeries and committing heinous crimes, all in a desperate bid for acceptance and love.
Ko Hyun Jung, who plays one of the iterations of Momi, reflected on the character’s internal struggle, saying her story is a “cautionary tale.”
Momi succumbs to her deep-rooted inferiority complex in the direst manner. It’s a cautionary tale reminding us that self-love and acceptance are paramount.
— Ko Hyun Jung
One of the unique aspects of the show is the decision to cast three actors for one role. Alongside Ko, Lee Han Byeol portrays the character navigating her 20s, while Nana showcases the character’s transformative phase post-plastic surgery.
For Ko, who is used to headlining series solo, this shared responsibility was a refreshing change.
Sharing Momi’s character with Lee and Nana was an incredible team effort. Each of us added a unique touch, encapsulating Mo-mi’s evolving journey.
— Ko Hyun Jung
But aside from “lookism,” Mask Girl also delves deep into the intricacies of motherhood. After being separated from her daughter for a decade due to incarceration, Momi makes a perilous escape to protect her child from looming threats. The contemplation of single motherhood and the subsequent choices made by Momi are given due weightage in the series.
Many dramas and films approach motherhood from different angles, but with ‘Mask Girl,’ I aimed for a fresh perspective. I wanted to integrate attributes typically associated with fatherhood — like protection — with the nurturing essence of a mother, offering a multi-faceted portrayal.
— Ko Hyun Jung
Mask Girl, since its release on August 18th, has catapulted to Netflix’s non-English language charts’ pinnacle, dominating in 14 countries and amassing 2.8 million views within just three days. Its distinctive storytelling, combined with its bold take on societal expectations and the transformative journey of its protagonist, makes it a must-watch for K-Drama fans and newcomers alike.
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