When it comes to the whirlwind of South Korean drama, few debuts have generated as much buzz as SBS’s “Kiss Me, Kill Me!” which burst onto screens on November 13, 2025. Starring the much-admired duo Jang Ki-yong and Ahn Eun-jin, the romantic comedy has quickly captivated both domestic and international audiences, climbing to the number two spot on Netflix Korea’s rankings within its very first week, according to FlixPatrol. But beyond the compelling on-screen romance, it’s the off-screen habits and insights of its stars—particularly Ahn Eun-jin—that have fans and health enthusiasts equally intrigued.
Ahn Eun-jin, who plays the lovable Go Da-rim, recently made headlines not just for her electric chemistry with co-star Jang Ki-yong but also for her unique approach to health and diet. On a recent episode of SBS Dramanet’s “Kiss Me, Kill Me!” behind-the-scenes segment, Ahn shared her unconventional method for enjoying gimbap, a popular Korean rice roll often shunned by dieters for its high carbohydrate content. Her secret? She wraps half a roll of gimbap in fresh lettuce or perilla leaves, creating a more voluminous bite while keeping calorie and carb intake in check. "If you wrap half a roll in greens, it feels like you’ve eaten a whole roll," she explained, adding, "It gives you the satisfaction of a full meal without overindulging."
This simple trick, Ahn noted, is rooted in the principle of volumetrics—a dieting approach that focuses on increasing the volume of food with low-calorie, high-fiber ingredients to promote satiety. According to the health news outlet Kormedi.com, this method isn’t just a psychological hack. The bulk from the added greens increases chewing time and fills up the stomach, sending early satiety signals to the brain. "Eating gimbap with vegetables increases the portion size but hardly adds calories—just 20 to 30 kcal more—and slows down how quickly you eat," the article explained. The result? You’re likely to feel full and satisfied with just half the usual serving.
For Ahn, who’s been praised for her lean, healthy physique—her collarbones and shoulders have been a particular topic of admiration—this approach is more than a diet; it’s a lifestyle. She’s combined her mindful eating with a summer of intense physical activity, including running along the Han River, Pilates, and Zumba dance. The actress has openly discussed her efforts to reduce carbohydrate intake, especially from foods like gimbap, which can range from 500 to 700 kcal per roll. By halving the portion and supplementing with greens, she keeps her breakfast to around 250 to 350 kcal, a strategy that not only supports weight management but also helps regulate blood sugar levels.
"When you eat gimbap alone, the white rice can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar," Kormedi.com explained. "But when combined with fiber-rich vegetables, the absorption of carbohydrates slows down, preventing sudden increases in blood sugar and reducing the risk of overeating or subsequent fatigue." This synergy between traditional Korean staples and modern nutrition science is something Ahn Eun-jin embodies both on and off screen.
It’s not just about calories, though. The actress is a vocal proponent of fermented foods—kimchi in particular—which she credits for aiding digestion and metabolism. On the show, she revealed that kimchi is a regular part of her breakfast, often paired with gimbap or rice. "I love kimchi and always try to have it in the morning," she said, emphasizing that the combination of fermented foods and vegetables helps her feel energized and satisfied throughout her busy filming schedule. The health benefits of kimchi, long celebrated in Korean culture, include its probiotic content, which supports gut health, and its rich profile of vitamins A, C, and K.
Fans have noticed the results. Social media has been abuzz with praise for Ahn’s appearance, with many noting her "half-sized" transformation. But the actress is quick to point out that her approach isn’t about deprivation. Instead, it’s about finding satisfaction in smaller portions and making every bite count. "Just eating half a roll can be enough if you do it right," she explained, highlighting the psychological benefits of feeling in control and content with less. This, experts say, is a classic example of behavioral modification—a cornerstone of sustainable diet change.
Meanwhile, "Kiss Me, Kill Me!" continues to ride a wave of popularity. The drama’s premise—a single woman pretending to be a mother for a job, only to fall for her team leader—has struck a chord with viewers. The chemistry between Jang Ki-yong and Ahn Eun-jin is often cited as a key factor in the show’s success. The production team told Xportsnews, "In romantic comedy dramas, the chemistry between the leads is essential. Jang Ki-yong and Ahn Eun-jin always support each other on set, and their bright personalities and smiles carry over into their characters’ romance."
With its strong opening ratings and a storyline that balances humor, heartache, and relatable struggles, "Kiss Me, Kill Me!" has also sparked lively discussions online. Fans dissect every episode, sharing theories, favorite moments, and even adopting some of Ahn’s health tips. The show airs every Wednesday and Thursday at 9 PM, giving viewers a midweek dose of romance and inspiration.
Notably, the international response has matched the domestic enthusiasm. Within days of its premiere, "Kiss Me, Kill Me!" had secured the number two spot on Netflix’s global chart for Korean dramas. This rapid ascent, as reported by FlixPatrol, highlights the growing influence of Korean pop culture and the universal appeal of well-crafted storytelling.
As for Ahn Eun-jin, her off-screen habits have become as much a topic of interest as her on-screen performances. Her approach to eating—mindful, balanced, and rooted in tradition—offers a refreshing counterpoint to fad diets and extreme restrictions. Whether she’s sharing a tip about gimbap or lighting up the screen with Jang Ki-yong, Ahn’s authenticity resonates with fans seeking both entertainment and healthy inspiration.
With "Kiss Me, Kill Me!" continuing to draw viewers and spark conversation, it’s clear that Ahn Eun-jin’s recipe for success—both in drama and daily life—is striking a chord far beyond the set.
