But after all, who does she end up with? And why does this choice make so much sense?
In this complete article, you will understand the ending of A Practical Guide to Love, the fate of each character, and the true meaning behind the final decision.
What is A Practical Guide to Love and why does it stand out?
A Practical Guide to Love is an adaptation of the webtoon Efficient Dating for Singles and breaks away from the traditional pattern of Korean romances. Instead of focusing solely on intense feelings, the drama addresses love from a practical and contemporary perspective.
The protagonist doesn't just want to "fall in love." She wants a relationship with purpose, stability, and a future—something that reflects a change in behavior of many adults today, including in Brazil.
A Different Love Triangle
The great differentiator of the plot lies in the construction of the two romantic interests:
Song Tae-seop: the ideal partner for the long term
Tae-seop is a furniture designer, stable, rational, and straightforward. From the beginning, he makes it clear that he seeks a serious relationship with marriage intentions.
He represents: emotional security, life planning, and real commitment.
Shin Ji-su: intensity and emotion
Ji-su is a rising actor, spontaneous and passionate. He brings lightness and emotion to Ui-young's life, but also carries uncertainties.
He symbolizes: intense passion, impulsivity, and more uncertain relationships.
This duality creates a conflict very close to real life: choosing between reason and emotion.
Who does Ui-young end up with at the end of A Practical Guide to Love
In the final episode, the choice is clear: Lee Ui-young ends up with Song Tae-seop.
The decisive moment happens when Tae-seop gives her a couple's ring. In response, Ui-young asks a symbolic question: if he would like to date "with marriage in mind."
The weight of this scene is not merely a confirmation of the relationship. It is the consolidation of the character's entire evolution.
Throughout the series, Ui-young learns that: love is not just feeling but building, compatibility is as important as attraction, and emotional stability can be more valuable than intensity.
This choice shows that she is no longer willing to live in undefined relationships.
Why does Ui-young choose Tae-seop?
The decision may seem predictable to some, but it is deeply coherent with the narrative.
1. Alignment of goals
Tae-seop wants exactly what Ui-young seeks: a serious relationship with a future perspective.
2. Emotional security
Unlike Ji-su, Tae-seop offers stability—something essential for someone who has already experienced disappointments.
3. Love that grows over time
The drama shows that feelings can strengthen through living together, not just emerge explosively.
What happens to Shin Ji-su at the end
One of the most praised aspects of A Practical Guide to Love is the treatment given to Shin Ji-su.
He is neither discarded nor turned into a villain.
A dignified and positive ending
Ji-su moves on with his life and signs with a record label, focusing on his artistic career.
This conveys an important message: not every relationship needs to end in heartbreak, and sometimes the healthiest ending is when two people choose their individual paths.