The Unseen Pressure: Lookism and Plastic Surgery in South Korea’s K-Pop Industry
From BTS to Blackpink, K-pop artists have skyrocketed to global fame, enthralling millions of fans worldwide with their impressive choreography, vibrant visuals, and catchy music. However, behind the glittering facade of the K-pop world lies a grim reality — a culture dominated by unyielding beauty standards and the rampant practice of lookism.
Lookism, discrimination based on physical appearance, is deeply rooted in South Korean society and, by extension, its pop culture. It’s not just about having a slim body or clear skin — it’s about fitting into a highly specific and rigid mold of beauty. This mold includes features like a small face, pale skin, a V-shaped jawline, and double eyelids. Those who don’t naturally fit into this mold often face severe backlash and criticism, pushing many to resort to plastic surgery.
South Korea has the highest rate of plastic surgery per capita worldwide, with around 10% of the population having undergone some form of cosmetic procedure. Among K-pop idols, the numbers are even higher. The immense pressure to fit into the aforementioned mold of beauty leads many idols and trainees to undergo invasive surgical procedures, often encouraged or even mandated by their management companies.
While some may argue that appearance is a vital aspect of the entertainment industry worldwide, the situation in South Korea stands out for its intensity. The pressure isn’t just about looking good — it’s about conforming to a very specific standard, one that often disregards individual health and well-being. For instance, diets in the K-pop industry can be dangerously restrictive. An example is Gugudan’s ex-member Kang Mina, who revealed that she lost 11kg in three weeks by drinking only two bottles of sparkling water daily.
Moreover, the advent of social media has only exacerbated the problem. With their appearance under constant scrutiny, idols and trainees face an onslaught of criticism from netizens about their looks, contributing to a toxic cycle of self-objectification and perpetuating lookism. This can have severe psychological impacts, leading to issues like depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
This issue of lookism extends beyond the K-pop industry and permeates South Korean society at large. The societal pressure to look a certain way is immense, contributing to a culture where plastic surgery is seen as almost a rite of passage for many young people.
But the question remains: How can this culture of lookism be curbed? The answer lies in multifaceted efforts. First and foremost, the management companies need to prioritize the health and well-being of their artists over maintaining a particular image. Simultaneously, fans and the public need to foster a culture of acceptance and diversity, valuing talent and personality over physical appearance.
Furthermore, the media has a vital role to play in promoting diverse beauty standards and body positivity. Featuring artists and public figures who defy traditional beauty norms can go a long way in changing societal perceptions of beauty.
In conclusion, while the K-pop industry has brought South Korea to the global stage, it’s crucial to address the underlying issues within this glamourous world. The culture of lookism is not just an industry problem, but a societal issue that requires immediate attention and action. By promoting diversity, prioritizing health over appearance, and challenging the rigid beauty standards, we can hope to create a more inclusive and healthier environment in the entertainment industry. This will not only benefit the celebrities who face immense pressure to conform, but also influence societal norms, allowing individuals around the world to feel accepted and loved for their unique beauty. It’s a shift that can fundamentally reshape our perception of beauty and inspire a new generation to celebrate diversity, fostering a culture of acceptance and respect for all.
