Record of Youth follows the lives of three young people in the contemporary fashion industry as they strive to achieve their dreams and find love without despairing in the face of the harsh realities of life. Sa Hye-jun is a handsome, intelligent, and kind-hearted model who dreams of becoming a successful actor, but struggles against the systemic barriers of his socioeconomic background. Alongside him is An Jeong-ha, a hardworking and optimistic aspiring makeup artist who finds solace in her work and her admiration for Hye-jun. The series explores the complex dynamics of friendship, family expectations, and the cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry. As Hye-jun begins to gain fame, he must navigate the pressures of public scrutiny and the jealousy of his childhood friend, Won Hae-hyo, who comes from a wealthy, privileged background. The drama provides a poignant look at the struggles of the millennial generation as they attempt to carve out their own paths in a world that often favors connections over talent.