TikTok Mukbang Star Dies at 24, Raising Concerns Over Trend’s Risks

Efecan Kultur, a Turkish TikTok star known for extreme eating challenges (mukbang), died at 24 after health complications linked to obesity and the dangerous nature of mukbang videos.

Mukbang, which originated in South Korea, involves eating large amounts of food on camera and has gained millions of followers worldwide. While popular, it faces criticism for promoting unhealthy habits and food waste. China has even banned mukbang due to these concerns.

Several mukbang influencers, like Nikocado Avocado, have publicly struggled with serious health issues caused by extreme eating. Kultur’s rapid health decline—bedridden and dependent on a breathing machine—highlights the physical toll of the trend.

His death joins other tragic cases, such as Chinese influencer Pan Xiaoting and Filipino star Dongz Apatan, who also died following extreme eating challenges.

Critics warn mukbang glamorizes dangerous eating for views and money. Some creators now add disclaimers or shift to safer content, but the future of mukbang remains uncertain.

Kultur’s passing is a stark reminder of the risks behind viral fame and the need for greater awareness around extreme online trends.