Eating Disorders and Hallyu: A literature review

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an observed increase in the prevalence rates of Feeding and Eating Disorders, particularly among the adolescent population. This phenomenon has underscored the influential role of media and culture in the etiopathogenesis of this problem. Similarly, during the second half of the twentieth century, the world witnessed the economic and social development of the Republic of Korea (South Korea). This development gave rise to the “Hallyu” or the “Korean wave”, a cultural phenomenon that portrayed an idealized image of Korean men and women. This portrayal significantly contributed to the popularity of idols or Korean artists, who have become a reference for the “perfect body” among adolescents consuming products like K-pop. Therefore, this article aims to provide a theoretical and documentary review of the main factors related to the Hallyu and its influence on body image and the development of Feeding and Eating Disorder symptoms. The study found that several relevant factors, such as the consumption of K-pop, K-beauty, K-dramas, and mukbang, are associated with concepts like parasocial relationships, celebrity worship, thinspiration posts on social media, body modification narratives as a means to achieve success and overcome bullying, and the use of mukbang for cheatmeals or controlling food intake. It is also recommended to replicate studies conducted in countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, and Colombia, as well as to consider large samples of participants, and to integrate the study of the population of male consumers of this trend.