Portrait of a Beauty (also known as Miindo: The Painting) is a South Korean historical drama film released in 2008. The movie is directed by Jeon Yun-su and stars actress Kim Min-sun in the leading role of Yoon-jeong/Yun-bok (the protagonist).
The film is set in the Joseon Dynasty era, where painting was considered a highly respected and revered art form, and men dominated the profession. In this male-dominated society, Yoon-jeong, a young girl, is gifted with an exceptional talent for painting. Unfortunately, as a woman, she is prohibited from pursuing a career as a professional painter. Her brother, who is also a talented artist, is groomed to take over the family business and become a court painter.
However, tragedy strikes when Yoon-jeong's brother dies by suicide, leaving behind a legacy that must be preserved at all costs. In order to keep the family honor intact, Yoon-jeong is forced to live as a man and take her brother's name, Yun-bok.
As Yun-bok, she becomes a successful painter, admired for her unique style and captivating depictions of women. Her painting of Lady Hyegyeong, the wife of the Crown Prince, catches the attention of Kim Hong-do, a famous painter and scholar. Hong-do takes Yun-bok under his wing and helps her hone her skills, not knowing that she is a woman.
Despite Yun-bok's success, her daring and provocative paintings are condemned by the royal institute as 'obscene.' Still, she persists in painting what she sees, and her art catches the eye of a wealthy patron, Kang-mu. Yun-bok falls deeply in love with Kang-mu, and for the first time in her life, she desires to be recognized as a woman.
The movie explores themes of gender, identity, love, and the power of art. It is a visually stunning film with breathtakingly beautiful scenes that capture the essence of the Joseon Dynasty era. Kim Min-sun's portrayal of Yun-bok is mesmerizing, and her journey from Yoon-jeong to Yun-bok is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Overall, Portrait of a Beauty is a must-watch for anyone interested in Korean history, art, and culture.