Jeongyeon was under a lot of scrutiny when TWICE unveiled the teaser for their fourth studio album, “FOUR,” not because of her stage presence or vocals, but rather because of her weight. The internet, which is known for being quick to notice changes in appearance, reacted with a mix of shock, harsh speculation, and admiration. Her seeming metamorphosis went viral due to visual curiosity rather than musical appeal.
This pattern feels remarkably similar to the wider expectations placed on female public figures around the world, where women are evaluated more on the basis of their bodies than their accomplishments. K-pop fans have frequently discussed Jeongyeon’s weight, but this time it went beyond being insensitive. It was ill-informed and dangerous.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yoo Jeong-yeon |
| Stage Name | Jeongyeon |
| Date of Birth | November 1, 1996 |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Occupation | Singer, Dancer |
| Group | TWICE (Debuted 2015 under JYP Entertainment) |
| Health Condition | Cushing’s Syndrome (caused by steroid medication) |
| Cause of Medication | Herniated disc in neck (diagnosed in 2020) |
| Exercise & Therapy | Tennis, surfing, mental health management |
| Comeback Album | “FOUR” (Announced May 2025, release July 2025) |
| Reference Source |
Fans gathered behind her in recent days, fiercely rejecting narratives that glorify her body. Others emphasized how common it has become to dissect female idols’ bodies as if they were merchandise, while one wrote, “Leave women alone, weirdoooos.” Another fan commented, “I find it disturbing how commonplace it is to make comments about women’s bodies as if they were unimportant.” Their indignation was not limited to Jeongyeon; it also represented a broader cultural fatigue with the constant scrutiny women face.
For those who don’t know, Jeongyeon’s physical transformations weren’t the product of flimsy intentions or prevailing lifestyles. She received a diagnosis of a herniated disc in her neck in 2020, which necessitates vigorous steroid therapy. She gained weight quickly and erratically due to Cushing’s Syndrome, which was brought on by the medication, despite its necessity.
In 2024, she directly addressed the subject by making an appearance on the “Gambyulsa” YouTube channel. She spoke steadily and without defensiveness. She clarified that the weight gain was a medical side effect rather than a personal choice. She even talked about how she currently takes care of her health, which includes regular therapy, tennis, and surfing—all of which are physically and therapeutically beneficial.
This degree of candor from a well-known K-pop star is incredibly powerful in upending antiquated notions of beauty. Instead of hiding or giving in to pressure to fit in, Jeongyeon has been forging a more self-respecting and sustainable future. Her strategy, which prioritizes wellness over weight, is not only beneficial but also incredibly empowering.
Many fans praised her for taking a break from her activities to focus on her recuperation, which is unusual and extremely brave in the fast-paced world of K-pop. Her supporters saw that as a strong statement for self-care rather than a sign of weakness. “She’s managing her condition while still giving us music, and that’s what matters,” a supporter wrote on Twitter.
Fans were emotionally invested in both the album and Jeongyeon’s return to the stage by the time JYP Entertainment revealed TWICE’s comeback in May 2025. The teaser gave off an air of futuristic elegance by showcasing all nine members in coordinated blue ensembles with sleek, straight black hair. However, Jeongyeon’s appearance once again sparked excessive criticism in spite of the uniform styling.
But something is subtly changing. The conventional narrative is no longer acceptable to fans. They are speaking out more and more to shield their idols from uncritical criticism. Particularly inventive is this development in fan culture, particularly in K-pop. It shows that audiences are starting to place just as much value on emotional fortitude and genuineness as they do on flawless performances.
International celebrities like Selena Gomez and Lady Gaga, who have both come under fire for weight swings linked to autoimmune diseases or medical procedures, can also relate to Jeongyeon’s experience. These links draw attention to a widespread problem in the industry: women’s bodies are held to demanding, frequently incongruous standards; they are praised for having a particular appearance but derided when they don’t because of illness or reality.
Jeongyeon’s journey has turned into a silent act of rebellion in the notoriously strict aesthetic expectations of K-pop. Her choice to prioritize her long-term health over her appearance has been well received by both critics and admirers. It serves as a reminder that strength, both physical and emotional, rather than size, is what defines success.
It is already looking like TWICE’s comeback this summer will be huge. The band is embracing a particularly high-energy era as their album “FOUR” is set to be released in July 2025 and they have a major performance at Lollapalooza Chicago on August 2. Nevertheless, Jeongyeon’s presence gives their tale more nuance. She is a human being who has recovered, adjusted, and risen again; she is not merely a performer in perfect synchronization.
Jeongyeon’s response is particularly evident because she doesn’t allow noise to control her story. Her emphasis on engaging in hobbies, maintaining mental equilibrium, and engaging in physical activity points to a very effective self-preservation mechanism. This goes beyond simple survival. It’s an excellent example of how to live a genuine life in the face of scrutiny.
Although the public’s discussion of her weight won’t go away right away, the way she handles it offers a model for more constructive fan forums. People are ready for idols who are relatable, real, and emotionally honest, as evidenced by the responses to her open disclosures.
