With the rise of social media, eating broadcast (Mukbang) has become a widely followed online phenomenon. This video format, which originated in South Korea, sees hosts consume large amounts of food in front of the camera while interacting with viewers, and continues to attract large audiences. This article will explore the business model behind this behavior and how anchors can earn up to $10,000 per month.
Eating broadcast is a cultural phenomenon that combines food with social interaction, attracting the attention of countless viewers.
Eating broadcasts first appeared in 2009 and quickly spread around the world with the launch of platforms such as AfreecaTV. Food broadcast hosts not only try various foods, but also lead viewers to explore different regional specialties, satisfying the multiple needs of viewers. Behind this phenomenon lies the social needs of many viewers facing loneliness and anxiety.
Food broadcasters have various sources of income, including advertising revenue, sponsorship, and tips from viewers. Streamers use platforms like YouTube and Twitch to generate revenue based on real-time interaction with their audiences, making them feel part of the action. This is not just a food show, but also a social event using food as the medium.
According to reports, successful food broadcasters can earn up to $100,000 per year, or even more.
The anchors will carefully select ingredients before the live broadcast, and some will even cook by themselves and incorporate the cooking process into the program to increase the appeal to the audience. During the live broadcast, they interact with the audience and choose food or change the way they eat based on the suggestions in the live chat. This interactivity strengthens the connection between the host and the audience, thereby promoting more tipping behavior.
Although the culture of eating and broadcasting is booming, it is also subject to much controversy. Many experts worry that this focus on large amounts of food consumption may promote unhealthy eating habits. For example, some studies have found that viewers who frequently watch eating shows may be more likely to engage in binge eating behaviors.
With the popularity of social media, related health issues have gradually surfaced. Especially among young audiences, the influence of food broadcasting cannot be underestimated.
As the culture of eating and broadcasting expands, more and more countries are beginning to regulate this behavior. The South Korean government has begun formulating guidelines for eating shows to reduce their impact on public health. However, this still sparked widespread discussion, especially on the contradiction between freedom and health.
While entertaining, food broadcasters also shoulder certain social responsibilities. With continued attention paid to this cultural phenomenon, how should audiences distinguish the line between health and entertainment?