After weeks of laughter, heartbreak, and unexpected twists, “My Girlfriend is the Man!” has come to a close, leaving viewers with an ending that feels both satisfying and refreshing.
While fans anticipated a happy resolution for Ji Eun (OH MY GIRL’s Arin) and Yoon Jae (ASTRO’s Yoon San Ha), the finale went beyond the typical rom-com formula. Instead of relying on clichés, it delivered heartfelt moments, thoughtful character growth, and a powerful message about love and acceptance.
Here are three reasons why the drama’s conclusion left such a lasting impression.
Warning: spoilers ahead!
Ji Eun and Yoon Jae’s much-needed breakup
From the very beginning of “My Girlfriend is the Man!” Ji Eun and Yoon Jae have been inseparable. Yoon Jae stood by Ji Eun through the unimaginable challenge of her sudden transformation into a man, proving the strength of his love. Yet as the drama progressed, viewers began to notice what Yu Ri wisely pointed out: Ji Eun’s world had started to revolve entirely around Yoon Jae. Meanwhile, Yoon Jae himself was sacrificing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study at Cornell University, afraid to leave Ji Eun alone in her struggles.
Episode 11 finally confronts this dynamic head-on. In a bittersweet but necessary decision, the couple parts ways. Yoon Jae leaves for Cornell, and Ji Eun turns inward, beginning her first web novel. For the first time since her transformation, Ji Eun chooses to focus on herself and her growth.
The drama subtly but powerfully underscores a truth often overlooked in love stories: relationships need space to thrive. Closeness can be comforting, but without independence, it risks suffocating both partners. By taking time apart, Yoon Jae and Ji Eun honor not only their own ambitions but also the authenticity of their bond.
Rather than a final goodbye, their breakup feels like a reset, an opportunity to nurture themselves as individuals so they can one day meet again on equal footing. “My Girlfriend is the Man!” reminds us that sometimes stepping back is the bravest way to love.
Love knows no boundaries
As a romantic comedy, “My Girlfriend is the Man!” always promised a happy ending. Yet the finale still managed to feel deeply rewarding because it redefined what “happily ever after” can look like.
Rather than resolving Ji Eun’s transformation with a neat bow, the drama takes a bolder route. It suggests that Ji Eun may continue to switch between Ji Eun and Ji Hoon (Yoo Jung Hoo) throughout her life. Instead of fearing this uncertainty, Yoon Jae embraces it wholeheartedly. His choice sends a powerful message: love is not about appearances, permanence, or convention; it’s about unwavering commitment to the person at their core.
One of the most touching symbols of this devotion comes through Yoon Jae’s wall of photos, where snapshots of him with both Ji Eun and Ji Hoon are displayed side by side. It’s a quiet yet powerful affirmation that, to him, both versions are equally beloved and equally real.
By refusing to tie love to fixed identities, the drama leaves viewers with a romantic but also progressive ending. Yoon Jae and Ji Eun’s story is not about perfection; it’s about acceptance, and that makes it all the more meaningful.
Min Joo’s surprising growth and redemption
Kang Min Joo (Chuu) has been a polarizing figure from the very start. Her unrelenting crush on Yoon Jae often crossed troubling lines; whether dressing up as Ji Eun or attempting to kiss Yoon Jae while he was drunk, her actions raised red flags and left viewers feeling uneasy. At times, her determination to win his affection felt less romantic and more unsettling, almost stalker-ish.
This is why many fans were wary when Min Joo pushed Yoon Jae to pursue his studies at Cornell University, suspecting hidden motives. However, the drama surprised audiences by revealing that her encouragement came from a genuine place of care. She wanted him to chase his dreams, even if it meant letting him go.
Episode 11 highlights Min Joo’s turning point. Before parting ways, she affectionately addresses Ji Hoon as unnie instead of oppa, showing acceptance of Ji Eun’s journey and breaking away from her earlier possessiveness. Later, she admits to Yoon Jae that even if he came back to her, she wouldn’t accept him, because she now understands they were never meant to be.
At first glance, “My Girlfriend is the Man!” seemed like it might explore a blooming romance between two men, especially with Ji Eun’s transformation into Ji Hoon. However, the drama took a more nuanced path. Rather than leaning into physical intimacy or pushing the boundaries of a traditional BL narrative, it chose to focus on the emotional reality of such an extraordinary situation.
For many couples, a sudden shift in gender identity wouldn’t magically transform their relationship into a new genre of romance. Instead, it would bring challenges, confusion, and the need to rediscover each other in unfamiliar ways. That is precisely what Ji Eun and Yoon Jae experienced: moments of heartbreak, separation, and growth. Yet what makes the ending truly impactful is Yoon Jae’s choice. No matter if Ji Eun remains Ji Eun or becomes Ji Hoon again, his love remains constant.
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Javeria is a binge-watching specialist who loves devouring entire K-dramas in one sitting. Good screenwriting, beautiful cinematography, and a lack of clichés are the way to her heart. As a music fanatic, she listens to multiple artists across different genres and stans the self-producing idol group SEVENTEEN. You can talk to her on Instagram @javeriayousufs.
Currently watching: “Bon Appétit! Your Majesty” and “My Lovely Journey”
Looking forward to: “A Hundred Memories“
