The K-pop industry is renowned for its dazzling performances, flawless visuals, and intense competition. However, behind the polished images and chart-topping success lies a darker reality: the extreme pressure on female idols to maintain unrealistically slim figures. Over the years, several prominent stars have opened up about the drastic and often dangerous dieting methods they endured, particularly in their early careers. These revelations have left fans both stunned and deeply concerned, sparking widespread discussions about beauty standards, mental health, and the physical toll of stardom in the industry.
One of the most infamous cases involves former IZ*ONE member and soloist Kwon Eunbi, along with models Lee Sora and Irene. They reportedly survived for extended periods on just a single apple per day. The fruit would be meticulously sliced into thin pieces and rationed across multiple days, providing minimal calories while attempting to suppress hunger. Such practices highlight the extraordinary lengths to which idols go to meet weight expectations set by agencies and the public.
IU, one of South Korea’s most beloved singer-songwriters, has also shared details of her pre-debut dieting struggles. At one point, her daily intake consisted of only one apple, two sweet potatoes, and a protein shake. In an even more extreme phase, she survived solely on water for six days, eventually abstaining from liquids entirely on the final day. These revelations shocked many fans who admire her for her talent and resilience, raising questions about the long-term effects such deprivation can have on young artists.
ITZY’s Chaeryeong once disclosed that she limited herself to just six or seven almonds and hot tea throughout the entire day during intense preparation periods. Similarly, former I.O.I and Gugudan member Kang Mina described surviving on only two bottles of sparkling water daily for two weeks, eventually dropping to a dangerously low weight of 41kg. These accounts illustrate the severe caloric restriction many idols face, often under immense pressure to debut or maintain their public image.
LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura revealed that her daily diet once consisted of merely three pieces of kimbap, while HyunA admitted to eating just a single piece during her strictest dieting phases. Such minimal intake raises serious concerns about how these artists sustained the energy required for rigorous dance practices and performances. TWICE’s Sana also shared that she once restricted herself to only eight cherry tomatoes per day while preparing for promotions, further emphasising the culture of extreme portion control.
Among all these stories, however, TWICE’s Momo’s experience remains one of the most harrowing and widely discussed. Before debuting, she was reportedly instructed to lose a significant amount of weight in a very short time. In her desperation to achieve her dream, Momo endured near-starvation. At one point, she consumed nothing but a single ice cube for an entire week. The idol later recalled the overwhelming hunger she felt, to the extent that she was afraid to fall asleep, fearing she might not wake up again.
These confessions have ignited important conversations within the K-pop community. While they provide a glimpse into the sacrifices idols make, they also expose the toxic beauty standards and unrealistic expectations that continue to prevail. The intense scrutiny on female idols’ bodies often leads to harmful physical and psychological consequences, including eating disorders, fatigue, and long-term health complications. Many fans and critics argue that such extreme diets are not only unsustainable but also dangerous, calling for greater awareness and systemic change within agencies.
Fortunately, the industry has shown signs of gradual progress in recent years. A growing number of artists have begun speaking out against these harmful practices, advocating for healthier lifestyles and more balanced approaches to weight management. Idols like IU and others have emphasised the importance of proper nutrition and self-care, encouraging younger generations to prioritise well-being over unattainable ideals. Some agencies have also started implementing better support systems, including nutritionists and mental health resources, though challenges remain widespread.
The pressure on female idols stems from multiple sources: strict agency contracts, fan expectations, media portrayals, and the highly competitive nature of the industry. Maintaining a slim figure is often viewed as essential for marketability, leading many young women to adopt drastic measures during critical periods such as pre-debut training or comeback preparations. These stories serve as a sobering reminder that the glittering facade of K-pop often conceals significant personal sacrifice.
As awareness grows, fans play a crucial role in pushing for positive change. Many now actively support idols who promote body positivity and healthy habits, while criticising content that reinforces harmful standards. The revelations from these beloved artists have contributed to a broader dialogue about reform, with calls for agencies to prioritise long-term health over short-term aesthetics.
Ultimately, the extreme diet routines shared by these idols highlight a systemic issue within the K-pop industry. While their dedication and hard work deserve admiration, the personal cost should not be overlooked. As more voices emerge advocating for healthier practices, there is hope that future generations of idols can pursue their dreams without compromising their physical and mental well-being. For now, these stories stand as powerful testaments to the resilience of K-pop stars — and as urgent reminders of the need for meaningful change.
