Echoing similar sentiments, another comment read: “You can encourage using stairs without shaming fat people. »
On the other hand, many netizens denied that the sign was “mean”, arguing that it was simply an “honest” reminder to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
“Guys, is it mean to want your citizens to be healthier? » asked one Reddit user.
Another user wrote: “I’m a little overweight myself, but this would really help.” It reminds me that I’m overweight and need to take the stairs instead of just following my lazy instinct and taking the escalator. It would be stupid to be angry at the truth.
Another Reddit user remarked: “This is a smart, if somewhat insensitive, reminder that physical activity is important for maintaining a healthy weight.” It’s also totally inefficient, judging by the constant flow of people getting on the escalator.”
The video also prompted some netizens to share their not-so-positive shopping experiences in South Korea during their trips there.
One TikTok user wrote: “I remember shopping in Korea and 95% of the stores only had sizes 2, 4 and 6 (EU sizes 32-36). »
One Instagram user lamented, “Korean “fat” isn’t even fat either. I’m a very tall Korean but I’m a petite American.
FATPHOBIA IN SOUTH KOREA
This is not the first time that floor stickers have sparked controversy.
Dubbed “weight loss stairs” in South Korea, media reports indicate that these signs were spotted in subway stations as early as 2013.
At the time, the signs also drew strong criticism from some Korean netizens who called their society “strange” and questioned whether gaining weight was a “sin.”
Fatphobia, or cultural bias against people considered overweight or obese, is a widespread problem in South Korea. The country is known for its strict beauty standards, which often prioritize a slim and petite body type.
K-pop idols and actors, considered role models, often face enormous pressure to maintain a slim physique.
South Korean media have also reported cases of job seekers who believe they have been discriminated against because of their physical appearance, including being overweight.
Although fatphobia remains widespread, there has been a growing movement in the country to challenge these beauty standards and promote body positivity.
