ALBAWABA – Seoul, the capital of South Korea, announced investing approximately $327 million (451.3 billion won) to fight the loneliness epidemic, known as ‘godoksa’ in Korean.
Godoksa, the loneliness epidemic in South Korea
South Korea is experiencing the tragic deaths of thousands of middle-aged men each year, many of whom die quietly and alone. Authorities often take days to find their bodies and discover the circumstances of their deaths.
The government is fighting the godoksa or the loneliness epidemic, which is spreading throughout the country, particularly in Seoul. To address this issue, the government will invest approximately $327 million (451.3 billion won) in the next five years in various initiatives.
New initiatives to fight the loneliness epidemic
Seoul mayor Oh Se-hoon, stated: “Loneliness and isolation are not just individual problems, but tasks that society must solve together. The city will mobilize all of our municipal capacity to help lonely people heal and return to society.”
The government introduced several initiatives, including 24/7 access to loneliness counselors, an online counseling platform, in-person visits and consultations, psychological services, and green spaces. Additionally, there are nutritional meal plans for middle-aged and elderly residents, as well as activities to encourage socialization, such as gardening, sports, book clubs, and more.
It is worth noting that the total number of deaths caused by the loneliness epidemic reached 3,661 in 2023, compared to 3,559 in 2022, and 3,378 in 2021, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s records. (Shutterstock)
Experts welcomed all efforts and initiatives proposed by the Korean government but stressed on the fact that loneliness in South Korea is deeply connected with specific cultural factors that need to be addressed and transformed.
An Soo-jung, a psychology professor at Myongji University, said: “Loneliness is a significant social issue right now, so efforts or policies to address it are absolutely necessary. There needs to be careful consideration about how effectively these measures will be implemented.”
It is worth noting that the total number of deaths caused by the loneliness epidemic reached 3,661 in 2023, compared to 3,559 in 2022, and 3,378 in 2021, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s records.
Males account for the highest number of deaths related to the loneliness epidemic compared to females. The increase in loneliness-related deaths can be attributed to the country's demographic rates, where the number of deaths significantly exceeds the number of births.
Additionally, the government categorizes any individual found deceased alone as a victim of the loneliness epidemic. Experts also note that many South Koreans perceive themselves as lonely if they feel unworthy or lack a sense of purpose.
