Why Korean Dietary Habits Don’t Always Translate to Weight Gain
Watch too much TV and we can assume anything. Everyone gains weight if “too much” is in order and Koreans are as human as everyone else. Yes, a diet primarily of plant-based food is historically what Koreans have consumed. However, with economic growth in the 1970s and 1980s, the landscape of Korean eating habits shifted dramatically. Better and “more balanced” eating gradually emerged, often accompanied by heavier and sweeter ingredients, and increased meat and fat. Fast food and higher calorie intake followed suit.
Fast forward to the late 1990s, when the author first arrived, seeming 'obesity' was nearly a non-entity among the Korean population. University students, in particular, seemed to starve themselves to look thin. Fast-food companies and K-pop industry draconian nutrition requirements added to this concern, though these days are increasingly not the norm.
The Evolution of Korean Dietary Habits
From 2007 to 2015, the obesity index in Korea, defined by the Republic of Korea to be 25 or higher, remained relatively steady at around 31.7 to 33.2. However, in 2020, the index rose to 38.3, representing a significant 4.5% increase. In 2021, the figure dipped slightly to 37.1. The increase in obesity rate is more pronounced among men compared to women.
Obesity Rates in Korea
Koreans, like any other population, are subject to changing dietary habits and lifestyle choices. The rise in obesity is not unique to Koreans, but the rate of increase is notable. Factors such as economic growth, changes in eating habits, and a shift towards more calorie-dense foods contribute to this trend. While Korea's traditional diet was plant-based and considered healthier, modernization has introduced a more calorie-dense diet, resulting in a higher obesity rate.
Reality vs. Perception
When visiting Korea, one cannot help but notice the physical changes in the population. Men and women, young and old, are gaining weight. However, it’s important to note that these changes are not emblematic of a widespread health crisis. As a resident of Seoul, you’ll see a diversity of body types, ranging from athletic to comfortably overweight. This reflects the reality that people here are indeed gaining weight, a reality that diverges from the slim, idealized figures in media portrayals and K-dramas.
Understanding Korean Obesity Trends
The rise in obesity in Korea cannot be attributed solely to dietary habits. Modernization and economic growth have brought changes in lifestyle and eating patterns. While the primary diet was historically plant-based, a shift towards more meat, fats, and processed foods has occurred. It is also important to consider the social and cultural shifts that come with economic development. Fast-food consumption, portion sizes, and sugar-sweetened beverages have become more prevalent.
Conclusion
Obesity is a global issue, and Korea is no exception. While the rise in obesity rates is significant, it’s essential to understand the underlying factors. Economic growth, dietary shifts, and lifestyle changes have contributed to the increase in obesity. Understanding these trends can help in developing comprehensive strategies to address the issue effectively. Whether it’s through dietary education, promoting healthier eating habits, or encouraging regular physical activity, a multi-faceted approach is necessary to address the rising obesity rates among Koreans.