Growing Up as 'Singboong': The Harsh Reality of Appearance-Based Bullying in Korean Schools

Introduction: The Story of Singboong

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be judged every day just for the way you look? Today, let's dive into the real-life story of Singboong, a Korean student whose school years were marked by relentless teasing and bullying because of his appearance. His story, shared on several Korean online communities, has sparked a wave of empathy, debate, and reflection about the culture of lookism in Korea. We’ll explore his experiences, the broader societal context, and what the Korean public and media are saying about this issue.
Singboong’s story isn’t unique, but it’s raw and honest. From being called names like 'freshwater flatfish' to having his mother’s workplace targeted, his experiences paint a vivid picture of how deeply appearance-based discrimination can cut.

Appearance-Based Bullying: A Hidden Epidemic in Korean Schools

Appearance-based bullying, or 'lookism,' is a major social issue in Korea. According to recent articles from The Korea Herald, Yonhap News, and Chosun Ilbo, students who don’t fit conventional beauty standards often face ridicule, exclusion, and even violence. This is exacerbated by Korea’s intense beauty culture, where looking 'average' can make you a target.
Singboong’s anecdotes—like being told to 'peel off his face in the morning' or being compared to vomit during art class—are sadly echoed in countless testimonies from students nationwide. A 2025 survey by the Ministry of Education found that over 30% of middle and high school students have witnessed or experienced appearance-based bullying.
Blogs on Naver and Tistory reveal personal stories similar to Singboong’s, with many commenters expressing heartbreak and anger at how normalized such cruelty has become.

Community Reactions: Outrage, Empathy, and Calls for Change

Korean online communities like TheQoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, and DC Inside have been buzzing with reactions to Singboong’s story. On TheQoo, a top comment reads, 'I can’t believe kids are still this cruel in 2025. We need real education on empathy.' Others on PGR21 and FM Korea share their own experiences, with some admitting to being bystanders or even perpetrators in the past.
However, not all reactions are sympathetic. Some users on DC Inside dismiss the story as 'just school life,' reflecting a generational gap in attitudes toward bullying. Still, the overwhelming majority express support for victims and demand stricter anti-bullying measures.
Interestingly, several bloggers have written about Singboong’s story, using it as a springboard to discuss the urgent need for mental health support in schools.

The Cultural Context: Why Is Lookism So Prevalent in Korea?

To understand why appearance-based bullying is so widespread, we need to look at the broader Korean culture. Korea is famous for its beauty industry, plastic surgery clinics, and intense media focus on looks. From K-pop idols to TV personalities, the pressure to be 'perfect' is everywhere.
Experts interviewed by JoongAng Ilbo and Hankyoreh point out that this obsession with appearance starts young. Schoolchildren pick up on societal cues, and those who don’t conform are often ostracized. The term 'lookism' (외모지상주의) is now widely used in Korean media to describe this phenomenon.
For international fans, it’s important to realize that while K-beauty and K-pop promote a glamorous image, there’s a darker side where many young people struggle with self-esteem and acceptance.

The Impact on Families: When Bullying Goes Beyond the Student

Singboong’s story takes a heartbreaking turn when his mother becomes collateral damage. After a classmate recognizes her as a local hairdresser, online trolls leave negative reviews, forcing her to change workplaces. This kind of secondary victimization is not uncommon in Korea, where family reputation is deeply intertwined with individual identity.
Recent news articles highlight cases where parents are harassed or blamed for their children’s perceived shortcomings. Bloggers on Naver discuss the emotional toll this takes on families, with many parents feeling helpless or guilty.
Singboong’s experience of crying with his mother after a particularly rough day resonates with countless Korean families facing similar struggles.

Mental Health and the Road to Recovery

The long-term effects of appearance-based bullying are profound. Mental health professionals interviewed by DongA Ilbo and Maeil Business Newspaper warn that victims often suffer from depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal. Singboong admits that even as an adult, he struggles with social interactions and self-esteem.
However, there’s a growing movement in Korea to address these issues. Schools are introducing anti-bullying programs, and mental health awareness is on the rise. Bloggers share resources for counseling and support, encouraging victims to seek help.
Community comments show a shift in attitude, with more people acknowledging the seriousness of bullying and the need for compassion.

What Can Be Done? Solutions and Hope for the Future

So, what’s being done to tackle appearance-based bullying in Korea? The government has launched campaigns to promote diversity and acceptance in schools. Recent policy changes require teachers to receive training on identifying and addressing bullying.
Media outlets like SBS and KBS are airing documentaries and talk shows about lookism, sparking national conversations. Influencers and celebrities are also speaking out, sharing their own struggles with appearance and self-worth.
International fans can support these efforts by promoting positive messages about diversity in K-culture communities. The hope is that, with continued awareness and action, stories like Singboong’s will become less common.

Conclusion: Lessons from Singboong’s Journey

Singboong’s story is a powerful reminder of the pain that appearance-based bullying can cause. It also highlights the resilience of those who endure it and the importance of empathy, both online and offline.
As Korea grapples with its beauty standards, there’s a growing recognition that true worth goes beyond looks. For anyone who’s ever felt different or left out, Singboong’s journey offers both a cautionary tale and a message of hope: you are not alone, and change is possible.