Many people may not be aware that in addition to academic exams, height is also a significant concern among Korean youth. The average height of Koreans is a factor that adds to the stress experienced by young people in Korea. Read the following article to understand the reasons behind this obsession with height in the Korean culture.
World average height
Human height is typically measured as the distance from the soles of the feet to the top of an individual’s head when standing upright. This measurement is usually recorded in centimeters or meters, although some Western countries use feet and inches.
On average, men tend to be taller than women, and the average height of Asians is generally lower than that of Europeans.
According to a survey conducted by Disabled-world on September 30, 2018, the global average height for men is approximately 177 cm (69.7 inches), and for women, it is around 163.3 cm (64.3 inches).
However, it’s important to note that average height can vary significantly among different countries. Let’s explore some statistics regarding the average height in various countries to observe these differences more clearly.
Netherlands:
With an average height of 175.62 cm, the Netherlands holds the record for being the country with the tallest average height in the world. Dutch men have an average height of 182.53 cm, significantly higher than the global average. The average height for Dutch women is 168.72 cm, which is also quite notable.
USA:
Contrary to popular belief, the United States does not have the highest average height in the world. The average height for men in the United States is 176.4 cm, and for women, it is 162.9 cm.
France:
In France, the average height for men is 175 cm, while for women, it is 162 cm. These figures are approximately on par with the average height in the United States.
Denmark:
Denmark is another country known for its tall population. The average height for Danish men is 181.38 cm, and for women, it is 176.21 cm.
China:
China stands out among Asian countries, as the average height for both men and women is similar to the global average. The average height for Chinese men is 172.1 cm, and for Chinese women, it is 160.1 cm.
North Korea:
In North Korea, the average height differs from the global average. The average height for men is 165.6 cm, while for women, it is only 154.6 cm.
Vietnam:
According to a study conducted in 2018, the average height of Vietnamese men is 163.7 cm, and for women, it is 153 cm. This places Vietnam among the countries with shorter average heights in the world.
India:
India is one of the countries with a notable height average. Indian men have an average height of 164.7 cm, while women have an average height of 151.9 cm.
Average height of Korean people
According to research on average height around the world, the average height for Koreans is 170.1 cm for men and 157.4 cm for women. This places Korea among the Asian countries with a relatively prominent average height.
Many individuals seeking answers to the question “Why are Koreans so tall?” are often surprised by the truth. In Korea, there is a strong cultural expectation among parents that their children will be taller than their peers, as height is believed to provide various advantages in life. Consequently, parents in Korea often resort to purchasing height-increasing drugs, nutritional supplements, and even administering hormone injections to their children from a young age.
The Korean obsession with average height is on the rise and tends to have negative consequences. It is essential to develop a correct perspective on the significance of an individual’s height in life and to equip ourselves with knowledge about healthy methods of promoting height growth.
Korean stars’ height – Korean stars have the biggest height in Kbiz
Due to the strong emphasis on body mass index, the height and weight of Korean celebrities receive significant attention from the public. Any deviations from the perceived standards are closely scrutinized.
Here are some average height measurements of Korean celebrities:
- Male Celebrities: The average height of male Korean celebrities ranges from around 170 cm to 180 cm (approximately 5’7″ to 5’11”). However, there are also taller male celebrities who surpass this range.
- Female Celebrities: Female Korean celebrities tend to have an average height ranging from approximately 160 cm to 170 cm (approximately 5’3″ to 5’7″). Similarly, there are taller female celebrities as well.
It is important to note that these measurements can vary among individuals, and there are Korean celebrities who fall both above and below these average ranges.
The height of Korean female stars
Kim Da Mi:
Kim Da Mi has gained attention for her unique and unconventional beauty, which sets her apart from the mainstream standards. Despite her distinct appearance, she surprises fans with her tall stature of 170cm (approximately 5’7″). However, when standing next to actor Park Seo Joon, who is known for his height, she may appear shorter at around 160cm (approximately 5’3″). Nevertheless, their chemistry and suitability as the lead couple in the movie “Itaewon Class” have captured the hearts of many fans.
Sooyoung:
As a member of the legendary girl group SNSD, Sooyoung has impressed audiences with her height of 170cm (approximately 5’7″) and super sexy long legs. Her outstanding height often makes her the center of attention on stage, overshadowing many other members of the group.
Jun Ji Hyun:
With a height of 173cm (approximately 5’8″), Jun Ji Hyun stands out among Korean actresses. She began her career in the entertainment industry as a professional model at the age of 16. Even after more than 20 years, Jun Ji Hyun remains one of the most sought-after and expensive actresses in the Korean entertainment industry, known for her sexy body and appeal, despite being a mother of two children.
Lee Sung Kyung:
Born in 1990, Lee Sung Kyung started her career as a model and has an impressive height of 175cm (approximately 5’9″). Her striking features, tall stature, and acting talent have made her a familiar face in the fashion industry, as she has become the face of many renowned brands and magazines.
Han Hyo Joo:
Often hailed as “the most beautiful smiling beauty in Korea,” Han Hyo Joo possesses a respectable height of 172cm (approximately 5’8″). Her charming smile and long, sexy legs make her the center of attention whenever she appears.
The height of Korean male stars
Lee Kwang Soo:
Among the top three Korean male stars with the highest height, Lee Kwang Soo stands out as the “giraffe.” He exceeds the average height of Korean people by a significant margin, measuring 194cm (approximately 6’4″). Standing at such a towering height, Lee Kwang Soo often towers over his co-stars by half a head, earning him the nickname. It’s become a rule in the Korean entertainment industry to “not stand too close to Lee Kwang Soo.”
Park Seo Joon:
Park Seo Joon has gained immense popularity through his roles in hit Korean dramas such as “Dream High 2,” “Kill Me, Heal Me,” “She Was Pretty,” “What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim?,” and most recently, “Itaewon Class.” Apart from his good looks and exceptional acting skills, his height of 185cm (approximately 6’1″) makes him even more appealing to fans. His tall stature becomes an added charm that captures the hearts of many.
Kwon Hyun Bin:
Before gaining recognition as a member of the group JBJ, Kwon Hyun Bin worked as a model for YG Kplus. With a height of 187cm (approximately 6’2″), Hyun Bin has become a prominent figure in Korean fashion and television shows, often showcasing his tall and striking appearance.
SF9 – RoWoon:
RoWoon is currently the tallest Korean male idol in the Korean entertainment industry. According to his management company FNC, he stands at 189cm (approximately 6’2″), although he personally admitted that his actual height is 190cm (approximately 6’3″). Fans even speculate that his height might reach 192-193cm (approximately 6’4″-6’4.5″).
Nam Joo Hyuk:
Another successful model-turned-actor, Nam Joo Hyuk, possesses a handsome face and a height of 187cm (approximately 6’2″). He has demonstrated his versatility and talent in various projects, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the Korean Hallyu wave.
How to grow Korean height – The secret to increasing height of Korean stars
During the early 1900s to 1950s, Korea had the lowest average height in Asia. Men had an average height of 161cm, while women had an average height of 154cm. Concerned about this issue, the Korean government began prioritizing the physical development of young children. They launched the program “Every child grows by 5cm a year” to encourage height improvement.
To implement this program, a team of Korean pediatricians researched safe and effective methods to increase height. They also studied nutritional supplements to support height growth, addressing the question of what to eat to increase height quickly. Mothers are offered training courses to enhance their knowledge of safe height development for their children.
However, the obsession with height in Korea has led to negative effects. There is significant pressure to be tall, with some considering men under 175cm as “failures.” Unfortunately, some parents resort to dangerous practices in their quest to increase their children’s height quickly, such as injecting growth hormones or misusing height-enhancing drugs. These practices should be avoided due to their potential risks.
It’s important to focus on healthy methods of increasing height. Here are some recommended approaches used by Korean stars:
Good nutrition: A balanced diet that includes essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals is crucial for proper growth and height development.
Regular exercise: Engaging in physical activities and exercises that involve stretching, jumping, and hanging can promote bone growth and improve posture.
Sufficient sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for overall growth and development, including height.
Posture and body alignment: Maintaining good posture and body alignment through exercises and proper body mechanics can help optimize height potential.
It’s crucial to prioritize overall health and well-being rather than solely focusing on height. Every individual has their unique genetic potential, and it’s important to accept and embrace one’s natural height.
Working hard
Korea, with its mountainous terrain, is renowned for the popularity of mountaineering. Koreans engage in mountain climbing as a means to alleviate stress and improve flexibility, which has a positive impact on height development.
Healthy eating habits
When it comes to eating and drinking, Koreans practice a method called banchan, wherein they consume a moderate amount of food served on small plates according to individual portions. This approach allows children in Korea to absorb essential nutrients fully, avoiding excessive starch intake and promoting a balanced diet as they grow up.
Incorporating fermented foods
Fermented foods such as kimchi, pickled radish, yogurt, and more have significant benefits for the body. They contain probiotics that support digestive health, enhance immunity, contribute to healthier skin, and aid in weight loss.
Utilizing ginseng and ginseng-based products
Aside from kimchi, Korea is also renowned as the birthplace of ginseng. Koreans incorporate ginseng into their daily dishes such as stewed chicken, porridge, shrimp, duck, and more. Additionally, ginseng-based canned products and cosmetics are popular in Korea.
Increasing milk consumption
From a young age, Korean children are encouraged to consume ample amounts of milk. Milk is a rich source of calcium, which aids in the development of strong bones.
Recognizing this consumer demand, many companies have developed milk products targeting adults to promote height increase. However, it is important to note that milk alone is not a miraculous solution for increasing height in adults, as rumored. Milk primarily supports height development and should be combined with exercise and a balanced diet.
Getting sufficient sleep
Sleep also plays a vital role in height growth. It helps eliminate toxins from the body, regenerate cells, restore organs, and aids in skeletal development. The body requires adequate rest for full development.
Despite being an Asian country, Koreans have achieved an impressive average height. This achievement is the result of 10 years of dedicated efforts by the Korean government and its people. If you desire to attain a desirable height, adopting a healthy lifestyle is the key.