Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Each year, thousands of South Koreans, primarily middle-aged men, die alone without family or friends. Their bodies are often discovered days or even weeks later. This phenomenon is what has become known in South Korea as a “loneliness epidemic,” or “godoksa” in Korean.
According to CNN, recent data from South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare said the number of “lonely deaths” has surged in the last years. The data shows that the number of cases reached 3,661 in 2023, up from 3,559 cases in 2022 and 3,378 in 2021. Men accounted for over 84% of these cases, with the majority being in their 50s and 60s, indicating that middle-aged men face a heightened risk of dying in isolation.
Government Efforts to Combat the Crisis
In response to the worsening godoksa crisis, Seoul’s city government has allocated 451.3 billion won (approximately $3.4 billion) over the next five years to address loneliness. Their goal is to make Seoul a city where no resident feels isolated.
The funding will support a range of initiatives, including 24-hour counseling services, online platforms for mental health support, and in-person consultations. “Loneliness is not just a personal issue; it’s a societal challenge that we must tackle together,” stated Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon.
Seoul’s plans also involve expanding psychological services, creating more green spaces, offering nutritious food for middle-aged and elderly residents, and organizing community activities such as gardening, fitness classes, book clubs, and more to encourage social interaction.
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Experts have praised these measures, though they caution that some aspects of loneliness in Korea are tied to deep-rooted cultural norms that are difficult to change. “Loneliness is a significant social issue today, making efforts or policies to address it essential,” said An Soo-jung, a psychology professor at Myongji University.
What Drives Loneliness Epidemic in South Korea?
In many cultures, loneliness is often associated with unsatisfying relationships. But in Korea, loneliness frequently stems from a lack of purpose or a feeling of worthlessness, An explained.
This sentiment is echoed by other experts who note that Korea’s loneliness epidemic is partly shaped by a cultural emphasis on relational impact. According to a recent study, South Koreans may experience intense feelings of loneliness or inadequacy if they feel they aren’t making a meaningful impact on others or society.
The study also highlighted other contributing factors: the rising number of single-person households, declining social interactions outside work and family, the pervasive influence of social media, and a competitive, achievement-oriented culture that can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.
The rising cases due to Loneliness epidemic has underscore the urgency for South Korea to address its growing crisis. Given the many factors that pose challenges, government action and efforts are crucial in addressing and resolving this crisis.
(Raidi/Agung)
