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Celebrity weight-loss drug trend sparks concern over youth misuse

Celebrity endorsements of weight-loss injections and obesity treatments are drawing massive attention on YouTube and social media — but also raising alarm over potential misuse and the spread of misleading health perceptions, especially among youth. While many stars say they’ve seen dramatic results, they also acknowledge side effects. Still, simply mentioning these treatments can serve as indirect promotion, fueling growing concern over how such stories are received and repeated. For celebrities — whose careers often hinge on appearance — weight loss is a frequent endeavor, whether for a role, image change or health. Naturally, their slimming journeys receive widespread attention. Many even share personal methods, gaining admiration from fans. Recently, testimonials about obesity drugs and weight-loss injections have multiplied, though the focus on efficacy often overshadows the risks. One such drug, Wegovy, is designed to suppress appetite and is approved only for people with a body mass index (BMI) over 30, or over 27 with comorbidities such as hypertension or diabetes. Its pop

Jun 9, 2025By Hankookilbo
Celebrity weight-loss drug trend sparks concern over youth misuse

The ‘no Wegovy’ diet movement sweeping Korean comedy stars

Korean comedians are taking a no-shortcuts approach to weight loss, impressing fans with transformations achieved without injections, surgery or popular weight-loss drugs like Wegovy. Instead, they’re relying on discipline, diet and exercise — often while documenting their journeys publicly. On June 4, the YouTube channel “Hong Yun-hwa Kim Min-ki Kkongnyangkkongnyang” uploaded a video titled “How I overcame my diet plateau: Easy and delicious menu recommendations after losing 20kg.” In the video, comedian Hong Yun-hwa celebrated reaching a major milestone: “For three weeks, I kept gaining and losing the same 2 kilograms — but I finally hit 20kg lost,” she said. “This morning, I was just so happy. I brought the outfit I wore in our first episode to show how much has changed. I’ll be revealing my workout routine soon.” Hong is just one of many comedians showcasing significant weight loss without medical procedures. Kang Jae-jun, for example, stunned fans after dropping 32kg. He had weighed 108kg before publicly committing to weight loss in 2023, vowing on YouTube

Jun 6, 2025By Xportsnews
The ‘no Wegovy’ diet movement sweeping Korean comedy stars

IVE’s Rei ditches bangs for sleek side ponytail and summer-ready elegance

IVE’s Rei captivated fans with a bold new hairstyle that showcased a dramatic yet refined transformation — just in time for summer style inspiration. On Wednesday morning, Rei attended a Tod’s photo call event at the Shinsegae Department Store in Banpo-dong, Seoul. She turned heads by appearing without her signature bangs, instead revealing a sleek middle-parted ponytail that exposed her forehead and brought out a more mature, elegant aura. The long, softly waved ponytail was tied low and draped over one shoulder, creating a romantic yet polished look. Rei completed her transformation with a cream-toned sleeveless wrap-style dress layered over wide-leg trousers. She paired the outfit with a silver necklace, black mesh shoulder bag and subtle accessories, creating a minimalistic but high-impact ensemble. The clean lines and luxurious textures enhanced her natural beauty, while her chic back silhouette added an unexpected element that further elevated the look. True to her nickname “Kongsuni,” Rei struck some playful poses, but the overall vibe was a departure from her usual imag

Jun 4, 2025By Xportsnews
IVE’s Rei ditches bangs for sleek side ponytail and summer-ready elegance

Kim Go-eun steals the spotlight with refreshing short hair

Actor Kim Go-eun turned heads with her chic short hairstyle as she departed for Japan, Monday. Kim was spotted at Gimpo International Airport, dressed in a casual yet stylish outfit consisting of an oversized white shirt, embroidered light-wash jeans and black shoes. Her light makeup and natural look highlighted her effortless charm, while the short haircut gave her a refreshing summer vibe. Kim is headed to Osaka, where she is expected to promote her latest projects and connect with her growing international fanbase. This article from Xportsnews is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.

Jun 2, 2025By Xportsnews
Kim Go-eun steals the spotlight with refreshing short hair

Nostalgia alert: K-pop idols revive their iconic styles

Some celebrities are turning back the clock by sharing images of themselves styled in their prime, evoking nostalgia among fans. Their throwback makeup and styling, reminiscent of their glory days, have drawn admiration for how little they’ve changed over the years. Actress Yoon Eun-hye, a former member of the girl group Baby V.O.X, is a prime example. Yoon played the role of Shin Chae-kyung in the hit 2006 MBC drama "Princess Hours." Recently, she recreated her character’s look on her YouTube channel, wearing youthful makeup, a school uniform, and red-rimmed glasses. Yoon also shared photos of herself transformed into Shin Chae-kyung on her social media. Singer Chaeyeon appeared on her YouTube channel in a concept inspired by 2005. "I thought it would just be funny, but seeing myself like that got me emotional," she said, expressing surprise at how she looked in her old style. Wearing a white fur-trimmed jacket, she added, "I used to wear this all the time. It’s like I was going around saying, ‘I’m Chaeyeon, the celebrity.’ Doesn’t the outfit give off a luxurious vibe?"

May 31, 2025By Hankookilbo
Nostalgia alert: K-pop idols revive their iconic styles

IVE’s Rei embraces ‘MZ-layered look’ with vacation-ready flair

As summer temperatures rise, fashion choices are becoming lighter — but the layered look that swept through the fashion scene earlier this year is showing staying power. IVE member Rei is offering a new take on the trend, adapting it to warmer weather with her signature MZ sensibility, and a stylish layered outfit, shared from her recent trip to Guam. Rei recently posted several photos on her social media, capturing a breezy vacation vibe that caught the attention of fans and fashion watchers alike. Known for her everyday style that resonates with the MZ Generation — a term in Korea that encompasses both millennials and Gen Z — Rei once again stood out with a smart, personal twist on seasonal fashion. In the photos, Rei wears a sleeveless black balloon blouse with a playful polka dot pattern, paired with a knee-length white midi skirt that adds a fresh and pure touch. Adding a subtle edge, she layered long pants beneath the skirt, creating a fashionable contrast that gives her outfit an unexpected hip charm. With temperatures making upper layering less practical, Rei’s styling o

May 24, 2025By Hankookilbo
IVE’s Rei embraces ‘MZ-layered look’ with vacation-ready flair

Hippie perms return as go-to summer look for Gen MZ flair

Hippie perms are back in the spotlight as a major hair trend this summer. For those looking to channel a carefree yet edgy vibe, particularly one that embodies so-called “MZ power,” now may be the time to try out the retro-inspired style — one that has recently been favored by several K-pop idols. Singer Chuu recently posted photos on social media revealing her latest hair transformation. Known for her usual straight or loosely wavy locks, she surprised fans by opting for a tightly curled hippie perm. With curls added all the way to her bangs, Chuu highlighted her signature lovable image with a fresh, more vibrant charm. IVE’s Rei put her own twist on the look by keeping her trademark bangs straight while adding curls to the rest of her hair. The style marked a departure from her usual appearance and offered a bolder aesthetic. Other idols embracing the trend include i-dle’s Yuqi and aespa’s Ningning, both showcasing their unique interpretations. Yuqi enhanced her doll-like image by pairing the perm with blonde, bleached hair in a more polished style. Ningning, on the other

May 24, 2025By Hankookilbo
Hippie perms return as go-to summer look for Gen MZ flair

Actor Han So-hee stuns in black-and-white contrast after Cannes red carpet debut

Actor Han So-hee turned heads with her stunning transformation from a white dress goddess at Cannes to a chic figure in a black swimsuit, captivating fans with her striking contrast in style. Han shared several photos Tuesday on social media, offering a glimpse into her activities following her appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Han walked the red carpet on Sunday (local time) in Cannes, France, attending as a global ambassador for the French high jewelry house Boucheron. She dazzled in an off-shoulder gown paired with ornate jewelry, radiating elegance. Following her red carpet moment, Han showcased a more casual yet equally captivating look, donning an all-black outfit against the scenic backdrop of Cannes. She also shared images of herself in a black one-piece swimsuit in a pool, exuding a serene and powerful presence. Posing while floating in the water, Han displayed her professionalism and artistic flair, further endearing herself to fans. Meanwhile, Han has confirmed her role in the upcoming film tentatively titled “Project Y” and is currently considering a part in the

May 22, 2025By Xportsnews
Actor Han So-hee stuns in black-and-white contrast after Cannes red carpet debut

‘Classic’ Jennie vs. ‘bold’ Lisa: BLACKPINK stars stun in contrasting Met Gala looks

Jennie and Lisa of BLACKPINK captivated global fans with starkly different fashion choices at the 2025 Met Gala, America’s biggest fashion event. The stars' respective styles — one classic, one daring — have continued to spark conversation long after the event. On May 5, Jennie and Lisa appeared at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for this year’s Met Gala, held under the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Representing the luxury brands they each serve as ambassadors for, both artists made bold fashion statements that left an impression. Jennie embraced a classic mood in line with the evening’s tailoring theme, showcasing elegance and sophistication. She wore a black off-shoulder satin jumpsuit paired with tailored black trousers from a French luxury brand she represents, highlighting a unique, androgynous charm. She completed the look with a two-tone fedora, the brand’s signature white flower brooch and pearl accessories for a timeless feel. Jennie’s look drew particular attention for the craftsmanship behind it — her outfit was reportedly the result

May 18, 2025By Hankookilbo
‘Classic’ Jennie vs. ‘bold’ Lisa: BLACKPINK stars stun in contrasting Met Gala looks
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