26 Feb EMPOWERING BEAUTY: A KOREAN REVOLUTION

Korean contemporary society and mass media have consistently promoted dieting and weight loss as a prevailing trend, framing extreme thinness as the ultimate beauty ideal. This standard requires Korean women to have fair and translucent skin, a youthful and cute appearance, and an extremely thin, almost paper-like figure. However, many celebrities today are championing a healthier, stronger, and more empowering standard of beauty.

Picture: “Bodymentary” poster

Bodymentary: Female Celebrities on Body Anxiety & Healing

In January, SBS’s latest documentary, Bodymentary, brings together five Korean female celebrities @Kim Wansun, @Soyou, @Han Seungyeon, @Jun Hyoseong, and @Hwasa who open up about the harsh realities of beauty standards in the K-pop industry and Korean society. Behind the dazzling spotlight, they reveal the emotional struggles and health issues caused by extreme dieting and societal pressure. Many female idols are required to adhere to strict weight standards from their trainee days, often facing immense pressure to maintain an “ideal” figure determined by rigid formulas.

Now, they are redefining beauty, embracing a healthier lifestyle and celebrating strength over size. Their powerful message has resonated with many young Korean women, inspiring a broader conversation on body positivity and self-acceptance.

Picture: @ Jing Wonyoung

From Skinny Idol to Confident Queen: Jang Wonyoung’s Transformation

As one of the slimmest idols in K-pop, Jang Wonyoung once weighed only 43 kg at a height of 174 cm. In a recent interview, Jang revealed that she has shifted her focus to fitness and proper nutrition, gaining 7 kg of muscle and strength.

Her transformation from a delicate, doll-like idol to a strong, confident woman has caught the attention of her fans and netizens, who praised and adored her new look, hoping Wonyoung maintains this healthy appearance. Her journey is now inspiring many young Korean women to break free from unrealistic beauty standards and embrace a more balanced approach to body image.

Picture: Lululemon x Park Seojun

Park Seojun x Lululemon：Empowering Health for a Stronger Body

@Lululemon has collaborated with Korean actor @Park Seo Jun to take everyone on his personal journey of discovering the importance of wellbeing in its short film “Stories of Growth.”

Within the film, Park shares his approach to holistic wellbeing, balancing physical, mental, and social health. He mixes circuit training, weightlifting, and cardio based on how he feels, helping him stay both physically and mentally balanced. He also highlights how exercise plays a key role in overcoming life’s challenges.This campaign, associated with World Mental Health Day, promotes healthy living and the “Together We Grow” initiative.

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