It was intense.
Koreaboo
3 minutes ago
Content Warning
This article includes descriptions of dieting, body image issues, or eating disorders that may trigger some readers.
In 2018, BTS’s Jimin revealed a shocking truth about the extreme lengths he once went to in order to meet industry beauty standards — a revelation that continues to resurface years later.
The moment came during the group’s Burn the Stage documentary, where Jimin opened up about his intense diet while preparing for a comeback. In the episode, he quietly admitted that he had gone 10 days eating just one meal each day, explaining that he was extremely self-conscious about how he looked on camera.
At the time, BTS was promoting songs like “Blood Sweat & Tears” and entering a new level of global fame. Jimin, known for his flawless visuals and sharp choreography, felt immense pressure to maintain a certain image — even at the cost of his health. The strict diet reportedly led to fainting spells during dance practice, and fans began to notice his increasingly thin frame and sunken features during performances.

Jimin’s confession shed light on the often-hidden reality behind the polished perfection of K-pop idols. Despite being one of the most successful artists in the world, even Jimin wasn’t immune to the intense scrutiny over appearance that idols constantly face — a pressure that pushes many to adopt dangerous habits in pursuit of the “ideal” look.
Since then, Jimin has spoken about finding a better balance, focusing more on health and self-acceptance. While he still maintains a rigorous training and diet routine like many idols, he has shown a healthier relationship with food and body image in recent years.
The story remains one of the most widely cited examples of how extreme the physical expectations can be in the K-pop industry — and a reminder that even global stars struggle with self-image behind the spotlight.