Jeongyeon’s appearance as she resumes activities with TWICE amid recovery + Why idols always try to stay skinny
Jeongyeon is joining other TWICE members on their US tour even though she has not fully recovered from health problems. This is why netizens cannot help but notice the difference in appearance when all 9 members perform on the same stage.
Because of a herniated disc in her neck and anxiety disorder, Jeongyeon had to suspend her activities with TWICE many times. Currently, she hasn’t fully recovered yet, and has shown some weight change due to the side effects of medications, but Jeongyeon still tries her best to promote with TWICE whenever she can. After missing the 2 opening concerts of TWICE 4TH WORLD TOUR ‘III’ in Seoul at the end of 2021, Jeongyeon recently headed to Los Angeles, U.S. with her fellow members to kick off their North American tour.
It’s been quite a long time since Jeongyeon has appeared on stage with TWICE, and touring overseas can be very tiring, but Jeongyeon still gives her best in every performance. But due to her physical condition, Jeongyeon still had to refrain from dancing too hard.
TWICE is famous for their synchronized and powerful dance, but based on the fancams taken at the concert, it can be seen that Jeongyeon’s moves on stage were not as flexible and comfortable as other members. Moreover, the other 8 members all have skinny and toned bodies, so Jeongyeon’s slightly round body shape is seen more clearly.
Jeongyeon participating in TWICE’s US tour is extremely admirable, showing how much she loves to perform and cares about the fans who have been waiting for her. However, the changes in her appearance made it difficult for Jeongyeon to perform the same way as before. This also partly shows why idols, especially female idols, have to go through extreme weight-loss to go on stage with an ideal body.
It’s a well-known fact that the camera can add a few pounds. Their job requires idols to be in front of the camera all the time, so they have to stay in shape and keep their bodies skinny. In addition, skinny bodies also help idols dance more flexibly and elegantly, making their groups’ performances more uniform and beautiful.
Most brands choose idols as models based on influence and appearance. On the other hand, although society has gradually changed the concept of a “standard” body and honors diverse beauty, many people still have a strict attitude and leave malicious comments on celebrities who do not have perfect bodies. It is undeniable that many Korean stars, especially female idols, have successfully upgraded their visuals thanks to weight loss. Jihyo – TWICE’s leader is one of the typical examples.
When joining SIXTEEN and just debuting with TWICE, Jihyo was often criticized for her chubby appearance compared to other idols. But thanks to weight loss and hard training, she now has a toned and attractive body. When going on stage, Jihyo became more and more attractive, and as a result, her popularity increased rapidly.
The same thing happened with Suzy and Seolhyun (AOA). When they first debuted, both of them received little attention because of their chubby bodies, but then they had a spectacular “makeover” when they became slim. Seolhyun is now even known as one of the sexy icons of Gen 3. Thanks to their more beautiful and eye-catching looks than before, the public noticed them, the 2 girls attracted more fans and had the opportunity to go further in showbiz.
Professional characteristics force boys and girls working in the K-pop industry to work hard to manage their bodies and even lose weight in a negative way. Jimin (BTS) confided that he once ate exactly 1 meal in 10 days to have a slim and sexy body when promoting the album WINGS. Momo (TWICE) did not eat anything for a week, only sucking on ice instead of rice to achieve her ideal weight before debut.
“National little sister” IU also cut down the portion by eating only 1 apple, 2 sweet potatoes and drinking 1 cup of protein water to lose weight. Fortunately, she only went on this diet during the comeback preparation period.
The K-pop industry values look and puts the quality of the performances first. So IU, Jimin, Momo, and many other idols, even though they know that losing weight is harmful to their health, are still willing to make a trade-off. They accept sacrifices because they want to appear in front of the audience with perfect looks and deliver top-notch stages.
As for Jeongyeon, because of her illness, she can’t perform at her best, and her appearance isn’t as good as it used to be. But that is not as important as the fact that the TWICE member has overcome difficulties, physical and mental pain to return to the stage with her teammates. And perhaps for ONCE, it is their priority that the female idol is healthy, having a happy and comfortable mentality.
