K-pop idols are expected to project a perfect physical appearance, based on the norm of South Korean beauty standards, and this is the core reason why they are prohibited to eat some foods.
Entertainment agencies make sure that their talents should pass these standards and make sure that they physically appear as fit for such qualities that K-pop fans and the Korean GP prefer to see.
In this regard, these 5 foods are strictly banned from K-pop idols, and why these are important to be excluded from their go-to list for everyrone to understand.
Bread
On top of the list is bread. Whether one is within the South Korean entertainment norms or not, this food is packed with carbs, which is a big no-no for those who are aiming for a slim figure. AOA Seolhyun once revealed that she adores bread but had to give up on it because it was prohibited by her agency.
Noodles
South Koreans are known for their exceptionally sumptuous noodles, such as ramyeon. However, whether you believe it or not, there are agencies that ban this on their artists' platter. Noodles, along with bread, is stuffed with carbohydrates that add weight rather than losing some. RM once mentioned that he had to let go of eating black noodles after Big Hit banned it during their promotional period. He even confessed that he cheated on the rule by pretending to go to the comfort room but ended up rushing to the nearest restaurant for noodles.
Rice
Rice is a staple food among Asian countries, but K-pop idols are banned to eat it, based on their agency's rules. Thus, brown rice, which is known to be approved for dietary planners and experts, is allowed if necessary. It is heavily prohibited when their artists are on promotions. Even those spicy rice cakes are blacklisted too!
Jokbal (Pig Feet)
Jokbal is popular in South Korea as a food eaten during the wee hours of the night. Even if it is one idol would crave for it, one should forget about it as it is a great source of high calorie intake. TWICE's Tzuyu confessed how she and the other members would look for places where cameras would not spot them while sneaking some bites of Jokbal.
Burger
And to complete the list is burger. This Western food has been adapted by the world and it has been part of the comfort stuff to munch on, especially while one is on the go. Unfortunately for the K-pop celebrities, they have to say goodbye to it as it. It 's packed with tremendous mount of calories and is considered a junk food. ASTRO's Eun Woo revealed that he secretly ate hamburger while on training.
This list goes to show that amidst the seemingly luxurious life and stardom, they also experience struggles to maintain their lifestyle and their status in the industry - just like any normal human being. And while there are moments when these prohibited foods are finally available, whether promotion period has ended or whatnot, the important takeaway in this is their discipline.