You Won't Believe What BTS's V Eats to Stay Fit—Is This Korean Snack a Hidden Danger?

Fans of the globally renowned K-pop supergroup BTS are buzzing with excitement as the band gears up for its highly anticipated full-member comeback. Recently, V, a member of the group whose real name is Kim Taehyung, shared a glimpse into his life through several casual photos on social media. In one particularly striking image, V can be seen enjoying a classic Korean winter street snack called bungeoppang, a fish-shaped pastry typically filled with sweet red bean paste or custard cream.

As the end of January approaches, V captioned his post with “January ends, February begins,” capturing moments that show him stretching with fellow members in a practice room and appearing relaxed outdoors, all while wearing a black jumper and a mask under glowing streetlights. The snapshot of V enthusiastically biting into a bungeoppang has resonated deeply with his fans, who appreciate the authenticity of their idol amidst the rigorous preparations for BTS’s upcoming activities.

BTS is set to release its fifth full-length album, "Arirang," on March 20, marking the group's first full-group comeback in approximately three years and nine months. Following the album launch, the group plans to hold a return performance titled "BTS Comeback Live: Arirang" on March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, before embarking on a world tour. This casual glimpse into V’s daily life has thrilled the global fandom known as ARMY.

Bungeoppang is not just a beloved winter snack in Korea; it embodies a cultural debate about the best way to enjoy it—whether to start eating from the head or the tail. This delightful pastry is hard to resist, especially on chilly streets, where a warm bite can instantly melt away the cold and bring a smile. But just how healthy is this treat?

The outer layer of bungeoppang is made from wheat flour batter, with fillings that make it high in carbohydrates, sugar, and calories. While it can be seen as a reasonable occasional winter treat compared to cakes and cookies, moderation is key. The main ingredients in sweet red bean paste and custard cream do offer some nutritional benefits.

Red beans, the base of sweet red bean paste, are rich in vitamin B1 and saponins, which can boost immunity and help prevent colds. They possess diuretic properties that assist in waste removal and reduce swelling. The potassium content aids in expelling sodium, supporting blood pressure management and alleviating edema. Furthermore, red beans provide plant-based protein and dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and preventing constipation. Antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, play a role in reducing free radicals, contributing to anti-aging and skin health.

However, it’s important to note that most red bean paste used in bungeoppang is mixed with sugar and oil, leading to a significant increase in calorie and sugar content, which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. A single red bean bungeoppang contains around 120 to 130 kilocalories, meaning that consuming several pieces can easily exceed the caloric content of a bowl of rice, which is about 200 kilocalories. Those with diabetes or insulin resistance should be particularly cautious about their intake.

Health experts recommend limiting consumption to one or two bungeoppang at a time and reducing other sugary foods and drinks that day. Eating slowly can enhance the feeling of fullness, and it's advisable to enjoy them during the daytime rather than late at night. For someone like V, who reportedly expends significant energy in preparation for the comeback, the health risks may be less of a concern.

On the other hand, custard-filled bungeoppang, which contains eggs and milk, offers high-quality protein and calcium. Milk helps relieve thirst and supports cardiopulmonary function, while eggs provide essential nutrition. However, custard cream often contains substantial amounts of butter and sugar, which can lead to rapid blood sugar increases and higher saturated fat intake. A single custard bungeoppang contains approximately 160 to 170 kilocalories, making it even higher in calories than the red bean version. As with the red bean variety, limiting intake and avoiding additional sugary foods and drinks is advisable.

As BTS prepares for their comeback, the excitement around not just their music but also their everyday lives continues to engage their fans. Whether it’s enjoying a simple snack or gearing up for a major performance, moments like these remind ARMY of the individuals behind the global phenomenon.