Hwa Sa to speak out about the harsh weight-loss practices imposed by entertainment companies

Kim Wan Sun, Soyou, Jun Hyo Sung, Han Seung Yeon, and Hwa Sa are set to share candid stories and unveil hidden truths about the entertainment industry in 'Bodymentary: Confessions About Weight.' 

Each of them will discuss their experiences of being judged for their appearance and weight across different eras and stages in their careers.

In a short preview released recently, Hwa Sa recalled her trainee days when she had to record and publicly disclose her weight daily. She shared, “There was a weight chart posted on the wall, and it was factored into the monthly evaluations." 

Despite reaching the peak of her popularity with her solo track "Maria," she confessed that it was the most challenging time of her life due to the immense pressure from the “unrealistic beauty standards” imposed on female celebrities.

Soyou also recounted her trainee days, where her weight was monitored weekly by the rookie development team. She revealed, “I admired the slim and tall physiques of Girls’ Generation seniors,” adding that she controlled her meals by marking a tally each time she picked up a side dish. Soyou also shared that she had to wear heels every day traveling back and forth from the company. The relentless pressure to lose weight for her debut eventually led to her collapsing in the street.

Jun Hyo Sung opened up about how the stress over her weight caused her to cycle between extreme dieting and binge eating, which took a toll on her body. After her meticulously prepared solo album failed to enter the Top 100 in its first week, she admitted that she even considered breast augmentation in an attempt to regain public attention. She also revealed that her small frame forced her to wear heels with a 15cm (6-inch) height, including a platform, and she resorted to tying them to her feet with bra straps to prevent them from falling off during performances—leaving her with injuries.

Joining Hwasa, Soyou, and Jun Hyo Sung are Han Seung Yeon, who debuted with KARA and captured the hearts of fans across Japan, and Kim Wan Sun, known as “Korea’s Madonna,” who has been adored for over 40 years. Together, they present raw and unfiltered accounts of what it means to live as women, artists, and idols in Korea through 'Bodymentary: Confessions About Weight.'

The SBS special 'Bodymentary: Confessions About Weight' will air on Sunday, December 29, at 11 PM.