Amid rising housing costs, soaring interest rates, and worsening housing insecurity for younger generations, the recent trend of celebrities showcasing their ultra-luxurious residences has drawn increasing public criticism.
Owning a home once symbolized success, but today, the size, view, and amenities of a residence have become markers of social status—where celebrities often stand at the pinnacle. However, this display of wealth can feel out of touch and insensitive given the current economic hardships faced by many ordinary citizens.
Long-running reality programs such as MBC’s “I Live Alone” initially drew viewers by portraying relatable solo lifestyles of celebrities. Early episodes featuring entertainers like comedian Lee Guk-joo and singer Defconn resonated with audiences facing similar struggles. But over time, as the show highlighted extravagant homes of stars, including SHINee’s Key’s multi-room Han River view apartment, public sentiment shifted from admiration to discomfort.
Key notably admitted on the program that he didn’t even know the exact number of rooms in his house, underscoring the sheer scale of these residences. Other stars, including Mamamoo’s Hwasa and TV personalities Jun Hyun-moo and Park Na Rae, have also drawn attention for their multi-billion won homes, prompting some viewers to express feelings of relative deprivation and frustration.
In the era of personal media and content creation, celebrities’ lives become commodities. For example, Davichi’s Kang Min-kyung recently shared her luxurious Hannam home on her YouTube channel, showcasing a beautifully landscaped terrace and enjoying a leisurely espresso latte. Kang also operates a fashion brand and made headlines for purchasing a five-story building in Seoul’s Hapjeong district for 6.5 billion won.
Similarly, actress Ko So-young broke from her usual private image by unveiling her architecturally acclaimed Gapyong residence, co-owned with her husband Jang Dong-gun. Their multiple properties, including a 16.4 billion won penthouse in Seoul’s affluent Cheongdam district, epitomize the extraordinary wealth held by top celebrities.
While the success of celebrities is fundamentally rooted in public support—which translates into advertising deals and increased earnings—there is growing expectation for them to show empathy toward the struggles of ordinary people. Flaunting wealth without sensitivity risks alienating their audience and fueling social resentment.
The tension between celebrity lifestyles and public realities raises important questions about timing, presentation, and the responsibilities of public figures in sharing their personal success.