Ozempic weight‑loss drug fuels health concerns and K‑pop idol debate

A viral video of ILLIT idol Minju showing a slimmer appearance sparked speculation on social media that she had used the diabetes drug Ozempic. The claim reignited broader discussion about rapid weight loss among K‑pop performers, with fans debating whether such changes stem from GLP‑1 medications, extreme dieting, grueling schedules, or other appetite‑suppressing drugs. Observers noted that thin physiques have been a long‑standing industry pressure, predating the recent popularity of drugs like Ozempic.

Separate new research on Ozempic highlighted rare but serious side effects, including an increased risk of pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, gastroparesis, and a rare eye condition (NAION). Studies also found that many patients regain lost weight after discontinuing the medication. European regulators have added warnings about these risks, underscoring ongoing scrutiny of GLP‑1 drugs despite their widespread use for type‑2 diabetes and weight management.