The world of social media was shaken as news broke about the passing of Efecan Kultur, a well-known mukbang content creator. The 24-year-old, who amassed a large following for his binge-eating videos, tragically lost his life after battling severe obesity-related health complications. His death has reignited conversations about the dangers of extreme eating trends and the pressure social media places on influencers to push their limits for engagement.
Efecan Kultur’s Rise to Fame in the Mukbang Community
Efecan Kultur was a popular figure on TikTok, boasting over 155,000 followers. His content centered around mukbang—an online trend where creators consume enormous amounts of food while interacting with their audience. Originating in South Korea, mukbang quickly gained traction worldwide, with influencers capitalizing on viewers’ fascination with indulgent eating.
Efecan’s larger-than-life personality and extreme food challenges made him a fan favorite. However, behind the entertaining facade, his health was in decline—a reality that many extreme eaters face but rarely discuss openly.
Weeks in the Hospital Before His Passing
Efecan had been dealing with severe health issues due to his weight for months before his passing. By December 2024, his condition worsened, leading to hospitalization. Reports suggest he suffered from breathing difficulties, mobility challenges, and other obesity-related complications.
His health deteriorated to the point where he became bedridden and required a breathing machine to survive. Tragically, his declining condition prevented him from visiting his mother’s grave after her passing a year prior. Despite receiving home treatment in his final weeks, Efecan passed away on March 7, 2025. His funeral was held at Celaliye Mosque in Istanbul, and he was laid to rest in Silivri Gumusyaka Cemetery.
Video: TikToker known for ‘mukbang’ videos passes away at 24
Social Media Reacts: Grief, Shock, and Controversy
Efecan’s death sparked an outpouring of emotions across social media. Many fans expressed heartbreak, while others saw his passing as a grim reminder of the dangers of extreme eating trends.
One user commented, “So sad to see this happen. He was just trying to entertain people, but at what cost?”
Another wrote, “Not surprised. Obesity is extremely unhealthy and often leads to an early death.”
Some users were more critical, with one stating, “He knew the risks, and he chose to keep going. It’s tragic but not unexpected.”
Others, however, defended Efecan’s choices, saying he lived life on his own terms. One supporter wrote, “He really lived his best life in that short time. Rest in peace.”
This mix of grief, concern, and debate highlights the deeper issue—mukbang and extreme eating may be entertaining, but they come with undeniable risks.
Mukbang and the Hidden Dangers of Extreme Eating
Mukbang videos have evolved far beyond their original concept. What started as a simple meal-sharing experience has turned into a race to consume increasingly outrageous amounts of food.
This trend has led to several serious health consequences, including:
- Obesity and weight-related complications – Excessive calorie intake can cause severe health problems, including diabetes and heart disease.
- Gastrointestinal damage – Overeating in short time spans can stretch the stomach and lead to long-term digestive issues.
- Psychological impacts – The pressure to maintain extreme eating habits for content can contribute to disordered eating and mental health struggles.
Medical professionals have repeatedly warned about the potential life-threatening risks, but many influencers continue to push their limits for views, sponsorships, and viral fame.
Other Mukbang Influencers Who Lost Their Lives
Efecan Kultur’s passing is not the first tragedy linked to extreme eating. Several mukbang and food challenge creators have suffered similar fates due to their content-driven eating habits.
Pan Xiaoting (China, 2024)
The Chinese live-streamer, known for her 10-hour mukbang challenges, died in July 2024. Reports suggest her stomach may have ruptured due to excessive eating, causing a fatal leakage of stomach acid and undigested food into her abdomen.
Taylor Brice LeJeune (U.S., 2023)
Known as Waffler69, Taylor gained a massive following for eating bizarre and often expired foods. He passed away at 33 from a suspected heart attack, likely linked to his unhealthy eating habits.
Brittany Sauer (U.S., 2023)
A TikTok influencer, Brittany battled Type 2 diabetes before passing away at 28. In her final videos, she openly expressed regret about her binge-eating habits, stating that they had “ruined her life.”
These cases highlight a disturbing pattern—entertainment-driven extreme eating can have real, irreversible consequences.
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Why Do People Watch Mukbang Videos?
Despite the dangers, mukbang remains incredibly popular. But why do millions of people tune in to watch others eat excessively?
Some key reasons include:
- Psychological comfort – Many viewers find mukbang videos soothing, especially those who feel lonely or anxious.
- Food fascination – Watching someone indulge in delicious meals can be satisfying for those trying to control their own eating habits.
- Entertainment value – The shock factor of watching someone consume absurd amounts of food draws in viewers.
- Parasocial relationships – Audiences develop a connection with their favorite mukbang creators, feeling as though they are sharing a meal with a friend.
However, the question remains—at what point does entertainment become exploitation?
Should Social Media Platforms Regulate Extreme Eating Content?
With multiple influencers losing their lives due to extreme eating habits, many people are calling for social media platforms to take action. Some believe platforms like TikTok and YouTube should:
- Limit the promotion of extreme eating videos
- Require disclaimers about health risks
- Demonetize dangerous content to discourage reckless eating habits
Others argue that content creators should have the freedom to make their own choices. But when those choices lead to preventable deaths, is it time for change?
Final Thoughts: A Wake-Up Call for the Mukbang Community
Efecan Kultur’s tragic passing is a harsh reminder of the real dangers behind extreme eating trends. While mukbang videos may seem like harmless entertainment, they often come at a high cost to creators’ health.
As social media continues to evolve, the responsibility falls on both influencers and platforms to recognize the risks and make healthier choices. After all, no amount of views or viral fame is worth a life.
What do you think—should social media platforms take action against extreme mukbang content? Or is it up to influencers to regulate themselves? Share your thoughts below.
