How to explain the popularity of staring at people chewing their food. — -- Kim Hyo Jin, 25, known as “BJ Hyo-jjang” by her fans, talks, laughs and eats alone in front of her webcam every night.

Mukbangs, originating in South Korea, offer a sense of company and shared experience for viewers eating alone. These videos tap into the human need for connection during meals, providing a simulated ...