Health Experts Issue Urgent Warning About Dangerous Trends of Imitating Hot Noodle Scenes from 'KPop Demon Hunters'

Health professionals across the country are raising serious concerns over a viral trend inspired by the popular Netflix animated series 'KPop Demon Hunters,' where children and teenagers attempt to recreate a scene involving extremely hot instant noodles. This dangerous fad has led to numerous cases of serious scald injuries, with young individuals exposing themselves to high-temperature foods and hot water during preparation.

The trend involves youths eating noodles straight from the microwave or stovetop, often without proper caution. Many injuries occur when children open microwaves that contain superheated noodles, leading to spills and burns. According to Dr. Colleen Ryan, a burn care specialist at Shriners Children's Boston and a Harvard Medical School professor, there has been a noticeable increase in burn cases linked to this challenge, typically involving two to three patients weekly.

'Most of these incidents happen when children reach into microwaves that are placed high, and the noodles are excessively hot,' Dr. Ryan explains. This phenomenon is particularly concerning because the show has gained immense popularity among children and its energetic, fast-paced storytelling appeals to young audiences.

The risk is especially high for young children, whose skin is thinner and more delicate. Just 155°F water can cause burns in one second for adults, but children are more susceptible to severe injuries even at lower temperatures. A study from the University of Chicago indicates that nearly 31% of childhood burn admissions are due to instant noodles, with 40% of these injuries occurring when children are alone during food preparation.

Beyond physical pain, these burns can leave lasting scars and psychological effects, emphasizing the importance of immediate and proper first aid. Experts recommend applying cool water to the burn for 20 minutes and seeking medical assistance promptly. Hot liquids and high heat exposure pose genuine risks, especially when combined with risky behaviors inspired by viral videos.

The U.S. Fire Administration advises that anyone with a burn larger than the palm of their hand should visit a healthcare provider or call emergency services. Parents and caregivers should educate children about the dangers of hot foods and liquids, and monitor their activities to prevent injuries. Being aware of safe food handling and quick response to burns can significantly reduce the severity of injuries caused by this hazardous trend.

For more guidance on burn prevention and first aid, refer to resources provided by the CDC and other health authorities.