Seoul, South Korea – Lee Soon-sil, a North Korean defector and entrepreneur, has garnered significant attention in South Korea after losing 30 kilograms (approximately 66 pounds) with the aid of the weight loss drug Wegovy. The transformation, highlighted on the KBS2 program “Sadanggwi” (translated as “Reminder Wedding”), has sparked conversation about weight loss trends and the increasing accessibility of medications like Wegovy in the country. This story follows Lee Soon-sil’s earlier public discussion of her weight loss journey, beginning in 2025.
Lee Soon-sil’s story is particularly notable given her background. Having defected from North Korea, she has become a successful businesswoman in the South, and her openness about personal challenges, including weight management, resonates with many. The dramatic change in her appearance, as showcased on “Sadanggwi,” has fueled public interest in the methods she employed. The focus on Lee Soon-sil’s weight loss with Wegovy underscores a growing trend in South Korea towards medical interventions for weight management.
Wegovy and the Rise of Weight Loss Injections
Wegovy, developed by the Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which regulates appetite and food intake, leading to a feeling of fullness and reduced calorie consumption. The drug has gained popularity internationally, with celebrities and public figures openly discussing their experiences. In South Korea, figures like travel creator Pani Bottle, comedian Kim Jun-ho, and broadcaster Pungja have also publicly shared their apply of Wegovy, contributing to its increased visibility.
But, Lee Soon-sil’s initial experience with Wegovy, as reported in June 2025 on KBS2’s “The Boss Has Donkey Ears,” wasn’t immediately transformative. She revealed that while others experienced an average weight loss of 3kg, she initially only lost 1.2kg. “I started taking Wegovy injections, and while others lost about 3kg, I only managed to lose 1.2kg,” she confessed during the broadcast. Despite this initial slower progress, she continued with the treatment and ultimately achieved a substantial 30kg weight loss. Interestingly, Lee Soon-sil also noted that Wegovy actually *increased* her appetite, contrary to expectations. “What are you talking about? My appetite actually increased, and I kept eating more,” she reportedly said.
Beyond Wegovy: Foot Massage for Facial Slimming
The recent reports also highlight another aspect of Lee Soon-sil’s regimen: foot massage for facial slimming. While the scientific basis for this practice remains unconfirmed, it has become a popular trend in South Korea, often promoted as a non-invasive way to reduce facial puffiness and improve facial contours. The Chosun Ilbo report details this addition to her routine, suggesting a multi-faceted approach to her transformation.
Previous Discussions of Wegovy and Weight Loss
Lee Soon-sil first publicly discussed her experience with Wegovy in June 2025, appearing alongside Chef Jung Ho-young on “The Boss Has Donkey Ears.” Jung Ho-young also shared his weight loss efforts, attributing his success to marathon running. He reported losing approximately 2kg, noting that his appetite also increased after running. This shared experience highlights the varied responses individuals can have to weight loss interventions. Ten Asia reported on this initial discussion, providing further context to Lee Soon-sil’s ongoing journey.
The popularity of Wegovy in South Korea reflects a broader global trend towards utilizing pharmaceutical interventions for weight management. The drug’s mechanism of action – promoting satiety – addresses a key challenge in weight loss: controlling food intake. However, as Lee Soon-sil’s initial experience demonstrates, individual responses can vary, and the drug is not a guaranteed solution. The combination of Wegovy with other practices, such as foot massage, suggests a holistic approach, though the efficacy of such combinations requires further investigation.
The case of Lee Soon-sil and her 30kg weight loss serves as a compelling example of the evolving landscape of weight management in South Korea. Her openness about her journey, including both the successes and initial challenges with Wegovy, provides valuable insight into the realities of using such medications. The continued coverage of her transformation on programs like “Sadanggwi” indicates a sustained public interest in this topic.
Looking ahead, further research will be crucial to understanding the long-term effects of Wegovy and the efficacy of complementary practices like foot massage. The South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety continues to monitor the use of Wegovy and other weight loss medications, ensuring patient safety and providing guidance on appropriate usage. Updates on regulations and clinical findings will be available through official government channels.
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