By J1 Reporter Natalia Waller

In today’s social media-driven world, a new trend of content has emerged: Mukbangs. It’s an eating video phenomenon that originated in South Korea and quickly became a global sensation. From Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, influencers are consuming food. This content consists of creating videos eating large, small, crunchy, soft and gooey portions of food. 

Mukbangs began as a simple concept: someone eating food on camera. But over time, it flourished into much more. Viewers aren’t just watching someone devour food but also watching an experience. It’s an amusement that skyrocketed in the past year. A combination of ASMR sensations created a satisfying atmosphere. The exaggerated sound varies from the crunch of chipotle chips to the slurp of ramen noodles.

The sensations can be an overload for viewers because not everyone can share the same enthusiasm. “I hate to watch Mukbangs because of how messy they are and the disgusting noises made as they eat. I scroll past any videos that have any of those extra chewing noises or sloppy eating. I wouldn’t make a Mukbang because it seems like a lot to do in one sitting, like imagine eating all the food in one sitting, gross,” junior Isabella Barnes said.

Unlike Barnes, who despises Mukbangs, “I love to watch Mukbangs, a bit too much. I don’t like when they have sauce dripping down their hands; they have to be clean. But I do love to see it. My favorite is Nikocado Avocado because of how iconic and hilarious he is with his videos. I really love ASMR. I would consider doing it and killing it because I love eating and would include all that exaggerated content,” junior MajieAhna Winfrey said.

In a world of endless content and trends, Mukbangs have begun to evolve. It offers a blend of entertainment, food culture and sensory pleasure that captured millions. Many influencers have used this trend as a business opportunity to get their name out there, like Nikocado Avocado or JellyBeanSweets. Whether you like or hate them, Mukbangs are here to stay as more are uploaded.