Mukbangs which feature people usually eating large amounts of food while talking and recording themselves have gained popularity over the last few years in Korea. The word mukbang comes from the word “muk-ja” in Korean which stands for “let’s eat” and “bang-song” which means “broadcast.” The trend first started in Korea and has been getting more popular across America and other parts of the world.
[Source: Youtube.com, Screenshot by Author, Jonathan Kim]
Mukbangs are also popular because older people who may not be able to get out of the house much can also watch mukbangs and not be lonely during their meals. The Youtuber can interact with the audience during a live stream for example and create better connections with the viewers. Many people eat alone and by watching mukbangs, they can feel less lonely and not eat by themselves.
Another reason why people also enjoy watching mukbangs is because of the ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) effect. By using ASMR Youtubers eat the food in a way that makes it taste better and more appealing to the viewers. ASMR can be seen in videos when the Youtuber slurps noodles, grills sizzling meat, or chews crunchy food. It is more attractive to people to hear the noises from eating the food than simply eating for others to watch.
Some people also enjoy watching these videos because they simply like watching others eat. It can be satisfying or pleasing to watch someone eat foods you may not be able to eat on a daily basis while staying healthy.
[Source: Youtube.com, Screenshot by Author, Jonathan Kim]
Jonathan Kim, Grade 7
Culver City Middle School