Once 37kg, actress Park Min-young reappears looking healthier and happier
Park Min-young / Captured from tvN, Xportsnews
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Actor Park Min-young has reassured fans with a healthier appearance, putting to rest rumors of health issues that followed her extreme weight loss.
Recently, Park was spotted at Gimpo International Airport before departing for an overseas trip. Unlike her earlier frail appearance that worried fans, she now looks noticeably more vibrant, with fuller cheeks and a brighter expression. Fans commented, “She looks so much younger with her cheeks filled out,” and “I’m relieved she looks healthy again.”
Park had previously dropped her weight to around 37 kilograms while filming the drama “Marry My Husband,” where she played a terminally ill character. Even after filming ended, her slender frame continued to draw concern. At the time, she clarified, “I only went on a diet for the role. I’m healthy.”
Experts say being underweight can carry serious health risks.
Being underweight can weaken bones and raise dementia risk
Celebrities like Park, whose appearance is part of their profession, often face drastic body transformations — sometimes having to lose or gain large amounts of weight in short periods.
While the dangers of obesity such as high blood pressure and diabetes are well known, the risks of being underweight are often overlooked. Persistently maintaining a low weight can lead to nutritional imbalance, weakened immunity and low blood pressure. People may suffer fatigue, dizziness or headaches, and those with low body mass are more prone to osteoporosis and bone fractures.
Studies also link low body weight to cognitive decline. A 15-year study in the U.K. that tracked 1,958,191 adults aged 45 to 66 found that people with a body mass index (BMI) under 20 had a 34 percent higher risk of developing dementia compared with those in the normal range of 20 to 24.9.
Healthy weight loss techniques
To lose weight safely, doctors recommend sustainable methods rather than drastic short-term plans. A healthy goal is to lose about 10 percent of body weight over six months, or 2-3 kilograms per month. Balanced meals should include carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Skipping meals or eating only one type of food can cause constipation and nutritional deficiencies.
Extreme can lead to hair loss, as the lack of protein and essential fatty acids weakens hair follicles. Reduced food intake may also trigger stress and worsen mental health. Experts advise combining a balanced diet with regular aerobic and strength exercises — at least three times a week for 30 minutes — to build muscle, improve metabolism and support gradual, lasting weight management.
This article from Kormedi.com, Korea’s top health care and medical portal, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.