
부종 (Bu-jeong): Korean’s Hidden Health Alarm
Share
Written by Seoul Turtle
What Is it and Why Koreans Care So Much About It?
To Koreans, a puffy face in the morning or swollen legs at night isn’t just a surface issue. Bujong (swelling, puffiness) is often seen as the body’s subtle SOS: a sign of internal stagnation, inflammation, or imbalance. Medically speaking, edema is the buildup of fluid in tissues, often caused by poor circulation, lymphatic blockages, salt retention, or hormonal changes. But in Korea, even a little swelling around the eyes, jawline, or ankles is treated as something worth addressing right away.
Why? Because to many Koreans, bujong isn’t just about appearance. It’s a reflection of how well energy and fluids move through the body. Facial puffiness may signal a restless night, sluggish digestion, or stagnant lymph flow. And when the lymphatic system slows down, it shows on the skin, in how we feel, and even in the way we carry ourselves.
In a culture where balance matters, managing bujong is more than just routine. Ask a Korean friend about puffiness, and you’ll get more tips than you asked for. To support natural detox and fluid balance, many Koreans turn to herbal teas like corn silk, red bean water, and barley tea—daily staples in wellness routines. After surgery or childbirth, warm pumpkin porridge and seaweed soup are often used to help the body release excess fluid and restore circulation. In the morning, cold face rollers reduce swelling and awaken the skin. At night, warm foot baths ease tension, support flow, and promote deeper rest. Gentle movement, light stretching, and a mindful approach to salt intake complete the ritual.
Remember: small, steady habits keep the body in balance.