According to the Korea Times, it is not uncommon to see male idols, actors and other celebrities being asked to show off their abs.
When stars refuse to lift their shirts to show off their figures, some fans are disappointed. This seems to blur the line between admiration and unnecessary pressure on public figures.
Recently, singer and actor Doh Kyung Soo (EXO's DO) and producer Na Young Seok interacted with fans at an event. When a fan asked DO to show off his abs, he replied, "I don't have abs. Why do you want to see my abs?"
“There’s no way I’m going to show my abs at any point in my life, so please understand,” DO added. “I can’t imagine working out just to say, ‘Look, I worked out,’ while showing off my abs.”
Many other stars have faced similar requests. They have been made by fans during live broadcasts, or presented as a challenge or "punishment" during concerts.
Abs are often seen as a symbol of self-discipline for celebrities, especially K-pop idols. Many stars who work hard to achieve them are happy to show them off. Ab displays often become hot topics among fans.
However, not all celebrities welcome requests to expose their bodies. Some feel embarrassed or uncomfortable if they are not confident in showing off their bodies.
There are still cases of celebrities showing off their abs when taking on roles on screen, or performing on stage. But being asked to show off their abs in everyday situations, or public events often makes them feel embarrassed.
The Korea Times compared it to a similar case of idols being constantly asked to perform "aegyo" - cute actions, often with a childlike voice - on TV shows.
However, there has been growing criticism of society's expectations for idols to speak like children, and things have begun to change.
JaeJae, a popular YouTuber and TV personality, is praised for her hosting style, which does not require guests to do “aegyo.”
The Korea Times commented that the culture of asking stars to show off their abs needs to be reconsidered, especially when it is not for professional reasons but simply because fans want to see them.
Asking someone to expose part of their body to an audience is likely to cause embarrassment or discomfort.
While it's acceptable if a star voluntarily chooses to show off their abs, asking for them in advance can lead to breaking the healthy boundary between celebrity and fan.
Stars, like anyone else, should have the right to refuse unreasonable requests.
