What is Mukbang?!?!

I've had the chance to be a part of the rise of mukbang as one of the original content creators in North America exploring this unique style. I discovered mukbang on YouTube, like a lot of you, and it was love at first sight. Watching mukbang calmed me down, and it gave me an outlet to explore the culinary arts. As a Canadian of Chinese and Greek heritage, I loved that I could explore cuisines from around the world using an Asian tradition.

For those who are unfamiliar, mukbang is a South Korean trend where people record themselves eating a ton of food and then upload it to websites like YouTube. In 2015, I began making mukbang videos that combined Asian and American cuisines, frequently discussing the cultural significance of the dishes I was devouring. My particular fusion of culinary styles and cultural education helped people find value in my content and inspired many other creators to explore this exciting trend.

What draws so many people to mukbang in North America? In my opinion it depends on a few crucial elements. Firstly, it's enjoyable to watch. Seeing someone else enjoy a beautifully prepared meal is fulfilling in so many ways. You can almost taste what they’re tasting, almost feel the textures on your tongue. Secondly, a lot of mukbang films offer a variety of delicacies, allowing viewers to taste test a vast range of cuisines and sensations without ever leaving their homes.

The sense of community that mukbang fosters is another factor in its popularity. I always aim to engage my viewers in real-time conversation by responding to inquiries and taking suggestions for what to eat next. This fosters a sense of involvement and connection between me and my audience.

But mukbang offers more than simply entertainment; it also has healing properties. It can be a sort of stress reduction or consolation for those who may be experiencing loneliness or isolation for many people to watch others eat. I experienced the feeling of calm the first time I saw a mukbang. Additionally, observing others consume huge amounts of food without experiencing negative consequences can alter one's perspective on food for people who may battle with disordered eating or body image problems.

There are so many reasons why mukbang is becoming such a household name in North America. It's not surprising that this trend has gained popularity in recent years given its medicinal effects, as well as its entertainment value and sense of community. It has also been fascinating to see it develop and expand as someone who has been involved with it from the start.

I can’t wait to share more videos with you on my YouTube channel. I love it so much when you comment and tell me what you want to see next!