People are clearly attracted by the visual language of their environment,
and what the eye sees can offer a sense of satisfaction. The project includes graphics, drawings, and videos inspired by the Korean eating show "Mukbang" on Youtube.
The presence of Mukbang videos (eating shows that originated in South Korea) turned pervasive as they could counteract loneliness and isolation by having the feeling of eating meals with another person. It has been described by Korean scholars how watching such content can reinforce viewers’ obsession as they find Mukbangs helpful in growing their appetite or keeping a restrictive diet.
The rise of eating shows adds another dimension to the visual sense. Our subconscious attraction to media that reflects real life makes us more susceptible to its influence. The content creators' desire to gain popularity through eating shows can lead them to prioritise their online presence over their own health. They may even push themselves to eat excessive amounts of food to maintain their position in the online world. However, this can be a slippery slope, as some creators may become consumed by the medium, leading to harmful consequences such as depression, eating disorders, and even death.
Over time, the constant exposure to various forms of media starts to consume us, and our perception becomes consumed by the "spectacles". It is as if we, ourselves, are slowly being digested by the media.
How do Mukbang videos affect us?
We should ask questions about the social use of Mukbang, whether positive or negative and how Mukbang influences individuals' mental health related to food.
