Mukbang and Cookbang watching and dietary behavior in Korean adolescents

Given that adolescents watch Mukbang (eating broadcast) more frequently than other age groups, interest in the potential health effects of watching Mukbang and Cookbang (cooking broadcast) is growing. This study aimed to determine the status of watching Mukbang and Cookbang among Korean adolescents and its relationship with their dietary behaviors.

We used data from the 18th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, conducted in 2022 (n = 51,850). The study included the frequency of watching Mukbang and Cookbang and the self-rated impact of watching them. Dietary behaviors included consumption of the following items: fruits (≥ once a day), vegetables (≥ 3 times a day), fast foods (≥ 3 times a week), late-night snacks (≥ 3 times a week), caffeinated drinks (≥ 3 times a week), and sweet-flavored drinks (≥ 3 times a week). Furthermore, obesity, weight loss attempts during the past 30 days, body image distortion, and inappropriate methods to control weight were also included.

Among adolescents, 70.6% watched Mukbang and Cookbang, and 13.2% watched them more than 5 times a week. Approximately 27.6% of the adolescents responded that they were influenced by watching Mukbang and Cookbang. Adolescents who frequently watched Mukbang and Cookbang consumed less vegetable and fruit; however, the likelihood of consuming fast food, late-night snacks, sugary drinks, and caffeinated drinks increased. In addition, they were more likely to attempt inappropriate weight-loss methods and become obese. Adolescents who responded that their eating habits were influenced by watching Mukbang and Cookbang were more likely to have unhealthy eating behavior compared to the group who responded that their habits were not influenced by these shows.

Watching Mukbang and Cookbang is common among Korean adolescents and is associated with unhealthy dietary behaviors. Prospective studies, including broadcasting content, should evaluate the impact of Mukbang and Cookbang on health.