There is a popular saying that “the camera adds 10 pounds,” implying that people tend to look heavier on camera than they are in real life. But does this rule still apply to K-Pop idols? Korean netizens were shocked to discover that it, in fact, does, and very visibly so.
K-Pop is infamous for its demanding and strict beauty standards. Regardless of gender, idols are expected to “manage” their weight and appearance, which they often achieve through extreme diets and exercise. But even when they are staying on top of all that, it doesn’t make them immune from criticism, especially on their looks.
Over the years, journalist photos have become a litmus test for idols’ visuals. The idea is that if they can “survive” the gaze of the camera, which picks up more imperfections than a phone, without staged lighting, their visuals are truly next-level.
But recently, a post went viral on a popular online forum after comparing Aespa’s journalist photos with their real-life visuals caught on a phone camera. Both pictures were from 2022 when the four members of the…
