The broadcasting age has already transitioned into this trendy age of social media. Today’s eat-cast trend has reached its peak and welcome to the Gen-Z age of self-broadcasting where you broadcast yourself to the millions to showcase your appetite for foods in a single sitting.
That’s what Mukbang is all about. The Slurping, Gulping, and Munching sound is connected to ASMR which stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. Now, that means a tingling effect in your Head, Scalp, or Back in response to the Visual, Audio, or touch Sound.
The sensationalization of Mukbang started in 2010 when some Korean Youngsters came up with eating “A Lot” and showing the world their unique craving for a variety of Foods. The Korean concept of dining together was the kickstart to one of those Alleviating contents of Social Media. Started on a Korean channel, the wave has rippled through most of the world banking the huge eating culture displayed with glittering background and colorful ambience. The Wide-angle videography makes the whole show very appealing. Add Sounds and various gustatory expressions to the above-mentioned set-up, Mukbang eco-system revolves all around it.
People have given their reasons for making a mockery out of it but I think Mukbangers with a lot of items on their plate are being the source of fulfillment of loneliness as well. There are lots of people around the world using Mukbang as their tool to satisfy their cravings. They bind themselves not to have it and take the taste from their eyes to avoid eating it. Some are baffled by ASMR they develop through such videos and channels.
However, few Mukbangers are questionable regarding their act, and takes as well as retakes it more vague. Some of them generously keep caution for people not to try it as it is never done in one sitting by the self-broadcasters.
Whatever may be the reason or cause, edited or unedited, allegations or no allegations; it has been a global phenomenon. It has not only attracted viewers but also given name, fame, and branding opportunities which the Mukbangers have grasped with both hands.
The branding and collaborations have yielded a handsome sum of money which the eat-casting artists have used to multiply in no time. The most popular category of YouTube has the most viewed section called “Mukbang Videos” which glues many to their respective screens.
This is not just a statement but the firm truth that the internet is going through with lots of Young adults believing a revolution for exchanging the food culture among many from their huge dining plates. The process is an ongoing phenomenon and the viewership of Mukbang is yelling in loud voices “Bring it On”.