Park Bo-gum of 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' reveals how he stays fit
Park Bo-gum / Courtesy of Netflix
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Actor Park Bo-gum has revealed the secrets behind his remarkably lean and sculpted physique — a combination of disciplined eating, early-morning running and swimming.
On Wednesday, Park made a surprise appearance at the live studio of SBS PowerFM’s “DinDin’s Music High,” shortly after wrapping up a fan meeting. Greeted warmly by DJ DinDin, Park said he often relieves stress by going for early morning runs wearing running socks gifted by DinDin.
The 182-centimeter-tall actor, who reportedly weighs just 75 kilograms, told listeners that he had only eaten two pieces of gimbap (seaweed rice roll) before the broadcast. When a fan requested a late-night snack recommendation, he suggested salad.
Park is currently hooked on running. He’s frequently spotted jogging along the Han River in the early hours, often with singer and charity-runner Sean. In fact, Sean has publicly praised Park’s stamina and speed. In June, he posted a photo with Park on social media, writing, “Bo-gum completed a 10 km run on just his second time out — so effortless.” More recently, Sean added, “We ran for 60 minutes and covered 11.37 kilometers in the rain. Impressive.”
From left, Sean, NewJeans member Danielle and Park Bo-gum / Captured from Sean's social media
Running: Cardio, mental boost and more
Running is especially effective for boosting cardiovascular health. Depending on intensity, it can strengthen the heart and lungs, improve circulation and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. As a weight-bearing exercise, it also helps maintain bone density and build muscle strength. Compared to swimming, running tends to burn more calories and increases basal metabolic rate, making it ideal for fat loss.
Mentally, running can help alleviate stress and anxiety through the release of endorphins, often referred to as a “runner’s high.” Park himself has said, “Even familiar places feel different when I run. The scenery and weather seem new.”
Running outdoors provides additional benefits: Natural stimuli like sunlight and wind enhance mood, build consistency and motivate long-term fitness.
Swimming: Full-body, low-impact strength
Before his running habit took hold, Park had long practiced swimming, which helped build his stamina. Swimming is a full-body aerobic workout that strengthens the upper body, lower body and core. The resistance of water improves muscular endurance, while the buoyancy reduces joint strain — making it an effective, low-impact exercise.
Swimming also supports respiratory health. It requires controlled breathing, which strengthens the lungs and improves lung function. The rhythm and immersion can also reduce stress and boost mood.
Minimal meals, keto gimbap and balance
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Park’s comment about eating only two pieces of gimbap before the broadcast drew attention for highlighting his light eating habits. Gimbap — often filled with egg, ham and vegetables — can be filling even in small portions. Eating small meals can prevent overeating, but consistent under-eating may risk nutritional imbalance if not managed properly.
For a more structured approach, Park has mentioned in past interviews that he enjoys "keto gimbap" during diet periods. This version minimizes or eliminates rice and focuses instead on high-protein, high-fat ingredients like egg crepe, tuna, cheese and vegetables. The low-carb format avoids blood sugar spikes and promotes longer-lasting satiety, supporting fat-burning by encouraging the body to generate ketones for energy.
Unlike some bland diet foods, keto gimbap allows for variety in taste and nutrition. When paired with vegetables or seaweed, it becomes a more balanced option suitable for long-term dietary goals.
By combining early-morning runs and regular swimming with mindful eating and nutrient-conscious meals like keto gimbap, Park Bo-gum maintains his physique while keeping both body and mind in optimal shape. His approach offers inspiration for fans aiming to stay healthy without resorting to extremes — proving that consistency and balance are key.
This article from Kormedi.com, Korea’s top healthcare and medical portal, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.