Survey Finds Rise in Anxiety and Depression Among South Koreans in 2024

Seoul: A recent survey has shown an increase in anxiety and depressive feelings among South Koreans in 2024, while perceptions of happiness varied across income groups. According to data released by the Korea Institute of Public Administration and reported by Yonhap News Agency, the average anxiety level recorded last year was 4.1 out of 10, up from 3.4 in 2023. Similarly, feelings of depression rose from 2.8 points to 3.5 points during the same period.

The survey, conducted between August and September last year, included responses from 8,251 adults to assess public perception and social integration. While overall happiness levels averaged 6.8 points, reflecting a slight increase of 0.1 points from the previous year, responses varied significantly based on income.

Among lower-income individuals earning less than 1 million won ($693) per month, self-reported happiness declined by 0.1 points, reaching an average of 6.0. In contrast, respondents in higher-income brackets, earning over 6 million won per month, reported an increase in happiness levels from 6.8 points to 7.0 points. This disparity highlights the influence of financial stability on emotional well-being.

The survey also indicated a rise in public satisfaction with the country’s political and economic conditions, both increasing by 0.7 points from the previous year to reach 5.1 and 5.3 points, respectively.

In terms of political inclinations, 45.2% of respondents identified as moderate, maintaining the largest share despite a 1.5 percentage-point decrease from the previous year. Meanwhile, 30.2% described themselves as conservatives, while 24.6% identified as liberals.

Anxiety and depressive disorders remain the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide. According to data from The Lancet and the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 284 million people globally suffer from anxiety disorders, while 264 million experience depressive disorders. The survey results underscore the growing mental health concerns in South Korea, reflecting broader global trends in emotional well-being and the impact of socio-economic factors on mental health.