IVE member Rei has opened up about her extreme dieting habits during the group's promotional periods.
In a recent episode of her YouTube series 'TtarehaebolRei', the idol shared insights into the challenges of maintaining her health while juggling a packed schedule as a K-pop artist. Rei explained that during comeback preparations, she adopts a one-meal-a-day routine, which includes long fasting periods.
"When preparing for a comeback, I try to have long fasting periods. I enjoy my one meal a day, but I avoid spicy food and late-night snacks to prevent bloating. If I get too hungry, I eat some fruit at night," she said in the episode.
She noted that her daily meals are often minimal. For example, breakfast consists of half an apple, which she typically eats in the car due to her busy schedule.
In a week of busy promotions, Rei kept her meals small but varied. On the first day, she ate nasi goreng for lunch and reminded fans to eat slowly and mindfully. By the third day, her midday meal shrank to strawberries and shrimp tteokbokki pasta. However, these tiny portions left her feeling hungry at night, so she had a late snack of cream bread and tangerines.
On the fourth day, she ate acorn jelly kimbap with tomato juice. By the final day, fatigue hit hard, and she lost much of her appetite, choosing just a single slice of pizza and strawberry juice.
Rei's diet highlights the intense pressure idols face to maintain their appearance during promotions. Despite the challenges, she has learned to prioritize moderation over strict dieting, adding that she has learned to eat a moderate amount of food instead of cutting down on food.
IVE is gearing up for its third fan concert, "IVE SCOUT," which will take place on April 5 and 6 at the KSPO Dome in Seoul.
