Actress Song Hye-kyo recently offered a glimpse into the dietary habits that keep her complexion radiant as she enters her mid-40s. On February 12, the star shared a photo of a simple, steaming bowl of dried pollack soup (hwangtae-guk) on social media, accompanied by the caption: "I enjoyed the pollack soup. Thank you."
While often dismissed as a humble everyday meal, this nutrient-dense soup appears to be a staple in Song’s beauty regimen. Known for her flawless "baby skin," the actress has previously shared her affinity for other seasonal, skin-supporting dishes like braised mackerel and dried pollack, highlighting a consistent focus on high-protein, elastic-boosting foods.
A Hangover Cure That Doubles as a Skin Tonic
While dried pollack soup is widely celebrated in Korea as a premier hangover remedy, its benefits for the skin are equally potent. Pollack is a natural powerhouse of collagen, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which contribute to skin regeneration and hydration.
The collagen found in the skin, head, and tail of the fish is particularly effective at maintaining elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and dark spots. When prepared as a soup—especially when the skin is included—it provides a bioavailable source of protein and collagen. Furthermore, the B vitamins (B2 and B3) found in pollack assist in repairing mucous membranes and brightening the overall skin tone, while omega-3s help soothe inflammation in sensitive or dry skin.
Health Benefits of Pollack
The Science of "Hwangtae": Concentrated Nutrition
The process of creating hwangtae (dried pollack) is a labor-intensive traditional method. The fish is hung in cold storage and subjected to a repeated cycle of freezing at night and thawing in the sun and wind over two to three months. This natural processing causes the flesh to turn a signature golden yellow and significantly concentrates its nutritional value.
High-Protein, Low-Fat: Dried pollack contains more than three times the protein of fresh pollack with virtually no cholesterol, making it an ideal choice for weight management and muscle maintenance.
Liver and Fatigue Recovery: Rich in amino acids like methionine and lysine, it promotes the breakdown of alcohol and the elimination of toxins, activating liver cells and relieving chronic fatigue.
Vascular and Bone Health: The high potassium content helps flush out excess sodium, while calcium and phosphorus support bone density, helping to prevent osteoporosis.
How to Prepare a Skin-Boosting Bowl
To replicate Song Hye-kyo’s healthy meal at home, soak dried pollack in a base of anchovy or kelp broth. Add radish, green onions, and bean sprouts for added fiber and vitamins, season lightly with soy sauce and salt, and finish with a beaten egg. This combination ensures a balanced intake of protein and antioxidants, proving that the most effective beauty secrets are often found right in the kitchen.
