Just a few weeks ago, TWICE’s Nayeon faced criticism for her supposed weight gain during an appearance at the ‘2024 Summer WaterBomb Festival.’ Now, it seems that even losing weight can attract negative attention, as evidenced by the criticism against Psy for his recent weight loss.

In a recent video, fans noticed a dramatic change in Psy’s appearance due to significant weight loss. Psy has been iconic for his chubby, jovial image, which contrasts with the typical fit and slender look of most performers. This distinct appearance has been a charming aspect of his persona, making him stand out in the industry.

However, it seems that netizens are never satisfied. Once the video was released, people quickly criticized Psy for his weight loss. The backlash was so intense that Psy felt compelled to respond, posting an apology video on his social media where he was seen eating at a restaurant.

This situation is quite unusual. While it's common to see celebrities apologize for dating rumors or other controversies, it's rare to see someone criticized so harshly for losing weight and then feeling the need to apologize for it. This raises the question: Do people miss the iconic look Psy has maintained throughout his career? Or is there a deeper issue at play?

This incident highlights a much larger problem within the world of Korean entertainment—the obsessive focus on physical appearance. Companies often pressure their artists to look a certain way, leading to extreme measures. For example, fans expressed concern when BLACKPINK’s Rose appeared thinner than usual at an event. On the other hand, TWICE’s Jihyo faced relentless criticism for her perceived chubbiness, both from the public and her mentors. Similarly, Gugudan’s Mina underwent rigorous and dangerous diets after being labeled “too fat.”

It seems that idols are caught in a no-win situation: they’re criticized if they’re too skinny, and they’re criticized if they’re deemed too “fat” for the stage. The high expectations and stringent standards of the Korean entertainment industry are becoming increasingly difficult to comprehend, especially given the profound impact these idols have as role models for younger generations. The pressure to maintain a certain body image is relentless, with every pound scrutinized and every appearance analyzed under a microscope by both the public and the media.

This unrealistic and often harsh scrutiny not only affects the idols themselves but also perpetuates harmful beauty standards across society. It sends a troubling message that worth is tied to appearance, fostering insecurity and body image issues among fans, especially young people who look up to these idols.

It's unfortunate that body positivity isn’t more emphasized within an industry that holds such power and influence over the general public. Given their reach and impact, idols and their management companies have a unique opportunity to challenge these rigid standards and promote healthier, more inclusive views on beauty and self-worth. Emphasizing body positivity and diverse body types could not only improve the well-being of the idols but also help shift societal norms toward a more accepting and supportive environment for everyone.

What are your thoughts on this issue? The conversation around body image in the entertainment industry is ongoing, and it’s crucial to consider how these standards affect both the artists and their fans.