
Last Updated:
Turkish social media star Efecan Kultur, known for Mukbang videos, died from obesity-related issues. With 150,000 TikTok followers, his death highlights extreme eating risks
In December 2024, Efecan Kultur was hospitalised due to his weight, experiencing difficulties walking and breathing. (Instagram/ankaraabisi)
A young Turkish social media star, known for his online eating videos, has died from complications related to obesity, sparking concerns about the dangers of extreme eating challenges popularised online.
Efecan Kultur, 24, had gained a large following of 150,000 on TikTok through his “Mukbang” videos. “Mukbang”, a trend originating in South Korea, involves individuals filming themselves consuming large quantities of food, often in a live-streamed format.
Kultur’s videos showcased his ability to eat vast amounts of food, but his lifestyle ultimately led to serious health problems.
In December 2024, he was hospitalised due to his weight, experiencing difficulties walking and breathing. His condition was so severe that he was unable to attend his own mother’s funeral.
Although Kultur was later discharged and received treatment at home, he tragically passed away, highlighting the potential dangers associated with excessive eating and the growing global problem of obesity.
Doctors and health experts consistently emphasise the importance of a balanced diet, but many individuals, particularly those influenced by online trends, can find themselves trapped in a cycle of overeating.