It is often said that the best is the enemy of the good. But K-pop idols disagree. Korean pop stars strive to be impeccable, both on stage and in their daily lives. A quest for perfection that reaches its climax with “wonyoungism”.
“Wonyoungism” is a new personal development trend driven by fans of Jang Won-young, a 19-year-old K-pop singer. The young woman became known to fans of South Korean pop thanks to her participation in the female sextet IVE, but also her strength of character. Indeed, Jang Won-young seems to exude self-confidence. In an interview, we hear him proudly say to his interlocutor: “I do not care. You, it's you, me, it's me“. Quite innocuous words but which have become a true mantra for thousands of young Korean women.
Jang Won-young's mostly female fans have developed a method to help anyone become as confident as their icon. It is based on a zest of meditation, a touch of relaxation and above all a lot of dietary restrictions. Because, like most K-pop stars, Jang Won-young attaches great importance to his physical appearance. The singer always appears in public in outfits carefully designed to highlight her slim figure. Her long black hair shines brightly and her nails are carefully manicured. In short, it borders on perfection.
On social networks, fans of “wonyoungism” share tips to achieve the same appearance as Jang Won-young. But this inspirational content can push young – or even very young – girls to adopt behaviors that are dangerous to their health. Posts with the hashtag #wonyoungism show empty plates or chewing gum, treats meant to act as appetite suppressants.
Abuses denounced by the most loyal worshipers of the Korean singer. “I'm sure Won-young wouldn't want his name associated with unhealthy practices. We must take care of our body and our mind. This is the main message of this movement“, Anastasia, an Internet user who maintains an account dedicated to “wonyoungism” on TikTok, told The Daily Beast.
“Wonyoungism” shows the extent to which Korean women worship beauty from a very young age. They try to match beauty standards by following diets, rigorously exercising, but also going under the knife. In the country, one in five women has already had surgery to improve their appearance, according to figures from the International Society of Plastic Surgery cited by The Atlantic. All for the sole purpose of becoming as perfect as the K-pop idols they worship.
