IU revealed her struggles with bulimia on the July 14 episode of “Healing Camp.”

The singer admitted to engaging in comfort eating, which would then lead to her throwing up.

In the interview IU confessed, “I felt empty inside so I tried to fill the emptiness with food.”

She sought medical treatment for bulimia and acknowledged her situation on “Healing Camp.”

A portion of the footage from the July 14 episode of 'Healing Camp.'

IU debuted with “Lost Child” in 2008. She gained popularity with international fans after starring as Kim Pil Suk in the 2011 drama “Dream High.”

Kim Pil Suk was an overweight vocalist who witnessed an increase in popularity following drastic weight loss. It is courageous for IU to admit past difficulties with bulimia considering that this role helped to launch her into a successful acting career.

K-Pop emphasizes physical images which are often unattainable. Within an industry that rewards “ant waists” in female performers and “chocolate abs” in male artists, it is not surprising to learn of eating disorders.

Numerous K-Pop idols have explained their battles with weight loss, though few have admitted to eating disorders.

It is encouraging to see an artist who is highly admired admit that they are dealing with an eating disorder.

In 2012, male vocalist and actor Seo In Guk admitted to dealing with bulimia. His struggle with the condition began after he auditioned for JYP Entertainment and was told that he was overweight.

Seo In Guk discussed his battle with bulimia during an April 2012 segment of the YTN program "News Issue-Issue and People." During the interview he stated, "I became obsessed with weight loss. After every meal, I'd vomit so I could lose weight."

Even though he lost weight through the unhealthy practice, he was not accepted in a subsequent audition at JYP Entertainment. He went on to explain that his vocal cords and vocal range may have suffered from the effects of repeated vomiting.

After his health stabilized in 2010, Seo In Guk went on to win "Super Star K." He is currently starring in the drama "High School King of Manners."

IU appeared on the July 14 episode of "Healing Camp" with actor and vocalist Kim Chang Wan. Sibling duo Akdong Musician also participated in the episode.

IU recently released the mini album "A Flower Bookmark". She will make her U.S. performance debut at KCON 2014.