In the lively streets of Korea, among the bright lights and delicious smells of its food, there’s something interesting about how people think about weight. Korea has a mix of old traditions and modern trends, and this affects how people see their bodies.
On one hand, there’s the glamorous world of K-dramas and K-pop, with its high beauty standards. On the other hand, there are long-standing ideas from Confucianism that talk about finding balance in everything.
So, in Korea, the way people think about weight is a mix of these different influences. It’s a complex topic that’s been around for a long time and is still a big part of Korean culture today
Understanding the Cultural Context of Being Fat in Korea
Looking at South Korean culture, weight and appearance are really important. They’re not just about staying healthy; they’re also about fitting in with what society sees as beautiful. As you walk around South Korean cities, you’ll notice that most people have slim bodies. This is because there’s a strong belief in Korea that being thin is beautiful.
The idea of beauty in Korea has also been influenced by interactions with Japan. There’s been a lot of cultural exchange between the two countries, and this has shaped how South Koreans see the ideal body type.
How Does Obesity in South Korea Compare Globally?
When it comes to the numbers, South Korea stands out for having one of the lowest obesity rates among developed countries. If you compare it to places like the United States, the difference is striking. Around 40% of American adults are considered obese, a figure that makes the U.S. one of the highest-ranking nations for obesity. But in South Korea, that number is much, much lower.
To put things in perspective, according to recent data from the OECD, less than 6% of adults in South Korea are classified as obese. The only other developed country with similar rates is Japan, which further reflects the influence of East Asian attitudes toward body shape and health.
Even when measured by international standards, South Korean men have some of the lowest obesity rates in the world, second only to their peers in Japan. Countries like Mexico and the U.S. see far higher numbers, highlighting just how different the reality in South Korea is—despite a persistent national conversation about weight and body image.
Different BMI Standards: Korea vs. International
Something else that stands out in Korea is how the country defines obesity, which is a little different from other places. The Body Mass Index (BMI)—that number you get using your height and weight—is a common way to measure obesity around the world. Internationally, a BMI of 30 or higher is usually labeled as “obese.”
But in South Korea, the standards are a bit stricter. Here, a BMI of 25 or more already counts as “obese.” They break it down even further:
- BMI 25 to 29.9: First-level obesity
- BMI 30 to 34.9: Second-level obesity
- BMI 35 and above: Third-level obesity
Comparing this to international guidelines, that first-level category would just be called “overweight” in many other countries. Korean health experts, however, have chosen to keep these lower thresholds. This is because research—especially among East Asian populations—has shown that health risks like diabetes and heart disease can start to appear at a lower BMI than in some other parts of the world. So, what counts as “obese” in Korea is actually based on a concern for early health issues, not just following a global rulebook.
The Role of Weight in Korean Culture
“In South Korea, weight isn’t just about staying healthy; it’s tied to bigger ideas about discipline, control, and fitting in. There’s a strong belief that being thin is a sign of success and acceptance in society. This idea goes way back in South Korean history, where there’s been a preference for slender bodies.
The pressure to be thin isn’t just about looking good—it’s about meeting expectations of success and desirability. This belief is also influenced by interactions with Japan, which adds more layers to how South Koreans see weight and body image.
Perception vs. Reality: The Weight Gap
Despite these pressures, there’s a striking disconnect between perception and reality when it comes to body image. For example, one in five Korean women surveyed in 2018 believed they were fatter than they actually were. Over the years, this tendency to overestimate one’s weight has only grown—research from Konkuk University Medical Centre found that between 2001 and 2018, the proportion of women overestimating their weight doubled from about 10% to 20%.
Yet, by international standards, South Korea actually has one of the lowest obesity rates among developed countries. According to OECD data, just 5.9% of Korean adults were classified as obese in 2018—the second-lowest rate after Japan. Compare that to the United States, where the number is closer to 40%.
A Matter of Definition
Part of the confusion comes from how obesity is defined. Internationally, a BMI of 30 or above is considered obese. In South Korea, however, the threshold is lower: a BMI of 25 or above is already labeled as “first-level obesity.” This means that many Koreans who are considered “obese” by local standards would only be seen as “overweight” elsewhere.
Local experts generally support this stricter definition, arguing that health risks for East Asians increase at lower BMIs. As a result, national health organizations have consistently recommended keeping the Korean standard.
Trends and Real Risks
It’s not just about definitions, though. The number of obese South Koreans has been rising—albeit slowly—since the late 1990s. But here’s an interesting twist: while many women worry about weight, obesity rates among Korean women have remained relatively stable, hovering around 27% for the past two decades.
The real change is seen among men. The proportion of obese men has surged, jumping from about 32% in 2001 to over 46% in 2021. In fact, in their 30s and 40s, more than half of Korean men are now classified as obese by local standards—a trend that continues upward each year.
The Bigger Picture
So, while South Koreans as a whole aren’t among the most overweight populations globally, there’s a growing concern—especially for men and younger people. For women, the challenge is often psychological: feeling “fat” even when statistics say otherwise. For men, the numbers show a steady climb that could have serious health implications down the road.
In short, South Korea’s relationship with weight is complex, shaped by deep-rooted cultural expectations, evolving health realities, and a persistent gap between how people see themselves and what the numbers actually reveal.”
South Korea's Beauty Ideals and Standards
Being in South Korea, the ideas of beauty and attractiveness are shaped by both old traditions and modern trends. This blend creates strict standards for how people should look, and discourages people who are fat in Korea. In cities like Seoul and even in the countryside, looking attractive is seen as very important, and it reflects the wider Korean culture.
The Realities of Being Fat In Korea for Foreigners and Citizens
When in South Korea, it is important to know that weight is an important part of society and culture. Many foreigners are surprised by how much attention is given to weight. They find that fitting in means adapting to these strict standards. For Korean citizens, the pressure to maintain a certain weight is constant and affects how they see themselves.
This focus on weight is also seen in schools. South Korean students not only strive for academic success but also feel the need to look a certain way. The expectation to be slim is a big part of everyday life and adds to the challenges they face.
The Weight Pressure on South Korean Citizens
In South Korea, the pressure to maintain a certain weight is a big part of daily life and goes beyond just wanting to look good. It affects both mental and physical health. This expectation to fit strict body standards is always present, influencing how South Koreans live and view themselves.
For many South Koreans, this pressure is a constant part of life, unlike for many foreigners who might only feel it temporarily. This scrutiny over appearance doesn’t just come from personal judgment; it also affects job prospects and social opportunities. In South Korea, how you look can play a big role in your professional and social success in the country.
The Weight Perception Among South Korean Women
An added layer to this relentless pressure is how it warps self-perception, especially among women. Many South Korean women tend to see themselves as “fat” even when they are not. Recent studies have shown that the tendency to overestimate one’s own weight is on the rise. For example, data from women aged 20 to 40 over nearly two decades showed that the number of women who thought they were heavier than they actually were doubled—from around 10% to about 20%. By 2018, roughly one in five South Korean women surveyed believed they were fatter than they really were. This distorted self-image only intensifies the emotional weight of the country’s beauty standards.
The Weight Perception Among South Korean Students
As we move from the broader cultural context to focus on schools, it’s clear that weight perception among students is a significant issue. In South Korean schools, students face not only academic challenges but also strong pressures to look a certain way, especially regarding their weight.
This weight pressure is very real. Schools often become places where these physical standards are enforced, both openly and subtly. It’s not just classmates who push these ideals; teachers and the schools themselves also contribute to this mindset. There’s a widespread belief that being slim means you’re more disciplined, efficient, and successful. This idea deeply influences the school experience for many students.
Body Diversity and Acceptance in South Korea
There’s a lot of pressure on plus-sized women due to the narrow portrayal of body types. The media and popular culture mostly showcase slim figures, making it tough for those who don’t fit this image. This preference for skinny bodies makes anyone different feel less desirable or even judged negatively.
These unrealistic weight standards create huge challenges for plus-sized individuals, turning their bodies into a battleground for acceptance. The constant pressure to be thin can make life very difficult for those who don’t fit the mold.
What’s even more troubling is how these standards affect perception—not just from others, but from within. Many women begin to see themselves as “fat” even when they aren’t. Studies have shown that this self-criticism is on the rise. For example, research tracking women in their twenties and thirties over nearly two decades found that the number who mistakenly thought they were overweight doubled. By 2018, one in five women believed they were heavier than they actually were.
Despite all this anxiety about weight, the reality is that many women have managed to keep obesity under control. The worry isn’t always backed by the numbers, but the impact on self-esteem and daily life is very real.
The Controversy Around Body Diversity in Korea
As we explore the differences faced by both foreigners and South Korean citizens, it’s important to look at the debate around accepting different body types in Korea. This isn’t just about opinions; it’s a real struggle for identity, self-expression, and acceptance in society. Plus-sized women, in particular, are at the center of this issue, facing strong pressures to meet traditional beauty standards while there is a growing push for more inclusivity.
The pressure on plus-sized women to conform to a narrow beauty ideal is intense. It’s not just about wearing a certain size but about fitting into a societal mold that judges their worth based on how they look. This makes it very challenging for those who don’t meet these standards to feel accepted and valued.
The Pressure on Plus-Sized Women in Korea
Understandably, in South Korea, plus-sized women face intense pressure to fit into narrow beauty standards. These expectations can feel restrictive and impossible to meet. The fashion industry, with its limited sizing options, often sends a clear message: your body doesn’t fit in. This exclusion isn’t just about clothing; it affects how plus-sized women are seen in society and how they view themselves.
The impact extends beyond just appearance. A woman’s body size can unfairly influence public perception of her discipline, attractiveness, and even her professional abilities. This makes it very challenging for plus-sized women and other people who are fat in Korea to feel accepted and valued in many areas of life.
Rising Obesity Trends and the Possible Road Ahead
Looking at recent changes in the way South Koreans eat and live, it’s clear the path forward may come with new health challenges. Over the last few decades, the average daily calorie intake has increased sharply, and diets now contain much more fat than they did before. This shift isn’t just a statistic—it’s showing up in real life, especially among children, teens, and men.
Recent health data shows a rapid rise in the number of adolescents and young people classified as obese, with some reports noting nearly one in five students now fall into this category—a marked jump in just a few years. While South Korea’s overall obesity rates are still lower than those seen in countries like the United States or Mexico, this steep upward trend is hard to ignore.
Men and younger generations, in particular, are driving these numbers. Studies continue to highlight that boys and teenagers are gaining weight at a faster rate, which raises concerns about how this trend could play out if nothing changes. Although many South Korean women often feel they are heavier than they actually are (thanks to those strict beauty standards), the data is clear—obesity is growing most rapidly among males and youth.
If these habits and social patterns continue unchecked, South Korea could face an escalating obesity issue in the years to come. Without changes in diet, activity, and broader attitudes towards health, the country’s current trajectory suggests a future where concerns about body shape may transition from strict beauty expectations to more serious public health problems.
CONCLUSION
In East Asia, including South Korea, there is a complex relationship between physical appearance and societal expectations. This dynamic affects both locals and foreigners, creating a challenging environment for many people. Traditional values often emphasize a narrow standard of beauty, but there is a growing movement towards accepting and celebrating diverse body shapes and sizes.
The shift towards embracing body diversity is a work in progress, pushing against long-held beliefs. It requires effort from all parts of society, including fashion, media, and education. Increased awareness and advocacy are crucial in promoting respect and understanding, helping to create a culture that values everyone for who they are because weight is going to be different for everyone, and being fat in Korea is ok.
Although this journey is challenging, it holds the promise of a future where everyone is appreciated for their unique contributions. By fostering inclusivity and diversity, we can build a more accepting and supportive society for all.