Recently, a lifestyle dubbed “healthy pleasure” has become increasingly popular among the MZ generation. Healthy pleasure isn’t simply abstaining from unhealthy food or exercising vigorously. Instead, it involves doing the very same things but in a more enjoyable and sustainable way.
Fundamental to healthy pleasure is sharing one’s healthy lifestyle on social media. A person takes photos of themselves hitting the gym or taking an exercise class and posts them on social media with the hashtag “##o.un.wan,” which is short for “completed exercise today” in Korean. They may also post photos of their diet or toned body with a different hashtag.
Two notable factors may account for the healthy pleasure craze: COVID-19 and the innate traits of the MZ generation. With the onset of COVID-19, people became more interested in attending to their health daily. The MZ generation’s propensity to seek validation and incorporate more fun in their lifestyles is also consistent with the concept of healthy pleasure.
The popularity of healthy pleasure has spurred some positive changes in South Korea’s food culture. There is now a higher demand for a broader range of products with the “zero” label, such as “zero calories” or “zero sugar.” People also don’t refrain from eating delectable foods while on a diet. Instead, they consume the low-calorie versions of the same foods, made with healthier ingredients but not tasting any less delicious.
Serena Park Staff Reporter junior/1713405721/1613367844
1. What is "healthy pleasure"?
2. What is the significance of the hashtag "##o.un.wan" on social media?
3. What two factors contribute to the popularity of healthy pleasure?
4. What positive changes has the healthy pleasure trend brought to South Korea's food culture?
1. Do you think incorporating enjoyment into healthy habits makes them more sustainable? Why or why not?
2. How do you balance maintaining a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying delicious foods?
3. Have you ever shared your healthy lifestyle on social media? If so, how did it feel, and what was the response?
4. How has your approach to health and wellness changed, if at all, during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Recently, a lifestyle dubbed “healthy pleasure” has become increasingly popular among the MZ generation. Healthy pleasure isn’t simply abstaining from unhealthy food or exercising vigorously. Instead, it involves doing the very same things but in a more enjoyable and sustainable way.
