Psychological Comfort and ASMR
One of the most significant drawcards of mukbang for many viewers is the psychological comfort it provides. For some, the content serves as a form of stress relief and relaxation. A key component of this effect is Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), a tingling sensation that can be triggered by specific visual and auditory stimuli. In mukbang videos, the amplified sounds of chewing, crunching, and slurping can be profoundly soothing for those sensitive to ASMR, creating a calming effect that helps viewers unwind. This can also aid in falling asleep for some individuals, as the focused sound can be a pleasant distraction from daily stressors.
The Soothing Effect of Sound
Specific auditory cues in mukbang contribute directly to viewer relaxation:
- Crispy sounds: The exaggerated crunch of fried foods or chips provides a satisfying auditory texture.
- Slurping noises: For dishes like ramen, the sound of slurping noodles is a powerful ASMR trigger that many find comforting.
- Soft speech: Many mukbangers speak in low, gentle tones, which adds to the overall soothing ambiance of the video.
- Repetitive actions: The consistent, rhythmic sounds of a person eating can be meditative and help block out unwanted thoughts.
Combating Loneliness with Digital Commensality
Another major benefit of mukbang is its ability to create a sense of digital commensality, or the experience of eating together virtually. In many cultures, sharing a meal is a fundamental social activity, and the rise of single-person households globally has left many eating alone. Mukbang fills this social void by providing a digital companion for mealtimes, making the viewer feel less isolated. This virtual companionship was particularly important during periods of social isolation, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where mukbang viewership surged. Viewers often form a parasocial relationship with the host, feeling connected to them through ongoing interaction and shared viewing experiences. The chat features on live broadcasts further facilitate a sense of community, allowing viewers to interact with both the host and each other.
Vicarious Satisfaction and Appetite Stimulation
Mukbang offers a form of vicarious satisfaction, allowing viewers to fulfill their cravings and experience the pleasure of eating through someone else. For some, this can be a tool for managing diet and weight control, as they can enjoy the visuals and sounds of food without consuming the calories. The heightened pleasure experienced vicariously can create a feeling of satiety, potentially reducing the desire to snack on unhealthy foods. This has been particularly appealing to individuals who are on restrictive diets but want to experience the indulgence of certain foods. Conversely, some studies also show that for individuals with low appetite or certain eating disorders, the sights and sounds of mukbang can stimulate hunger and encourage them to eat more.
Mukbang and Diet Control
The relationship between mukbang and diet control is complex and depends heavily on individual motivations and content type. While some use it to manage cravings, others find it counterproductive.
| Feature | Audience Seeking Weight Control | Audience Needing Appetite Stimulant |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Motivation | Vicarious satiation, curbing cravings. | Gustatory stimulation, enjoyment of food visuals. |
| Desired Content | Focus on appealing food visuals and sounds, less on quantity. | Diverse, high-energy videos showing food being enjoyed thoroughly. |
| Potential Outcome | Avoids caloric intake, reduces mental stress around dieting. | Increases desire to eat, makes mealtime more engaging. |
| Risk Factor | May trigger disordered eating patterns or unhealthy food obsessions. | Excessive exposure to unhealthy foods may lead to poor dietary habits. |
Comparative Look: Benefits vs. Risks
While the benefits of mukbang are evident for many, it is crucial to consider the potential risks associated with its consumption, as highlighted by multiple academic studies. A balanced perspective acknowledges that the impact is largely dependent on the individual viewer's psychological state and viewing habits.
- Social Connection: While mukbang provides digital companionship, excessive reliance on it can further exacerbate feelings of real-world loneliness and social isolation. The online community is a substitute, not a replacement, for genuine social interaction, and using it as a primary coping mechanism can be problematic.
- Mental Health: Studies have shown correlations between frequent mukbang viewing and an increased risk of depression and anxiety, particularly among those who already experience emotional distress. The content can be a reflection of underlying issues rather than a benign source of comfort. Conversely, for others, the entertainment and relaxation provided are purely positive outlets for stress reduction.
- Eating Behavior: The vicarious satisfaction and appetite stimulation aspects are a double-edged sword. While some use it to manage eating, others, especially those with pre-existing tendencies towards disordered eating, may be triggered by the videos. The normalization of large portion sizes and unhealthy eating habits, frequently featured in many mukbangs, can negatively influence viewers' dietary choices and contribute to weight gain.
For a deeper look into the psychological effects, including potential drawbacks, recent research provides comprehensive analyses. For example, a 2025 study published in BMC Psychiatry found a significant positive relationship between higher frequency of mukbang viewing and increased prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms in adults.
Conclusion
Mukbang is a complex online phenomenon that offers a range of potential benefits, particularly in the realms of psychological comfort and social connection. For many, it serves as a source of relaxation through ASMR, a virtual mealtime companion that combats loneliness, and a source of vicarious satisfaction for food cravings. However, these benefits are intertwined with significant potential risks, including a possible association with problematic eating behaviors and negative mental health outcomes for certain individuals. The ultimate impact of mukbang is not universal but is shaped by the viewer's underlying motivations, psychological health, and the specific content consumed. While it fills a modern social need, it highlights the increasing need for digital media literacy to navigate its multifaceted effects on health and well-being. Viewers are encouraged to be mindful of their own psychological responses and viewing habits to maximize potential benefits while minimizing risks.
