Seoul/Mokpo, South Korea – A Journey Beyond Isolation
In 2018, Kim Ji-ung found himself adrift in the bustling metropolis of Seoul. At just over 30 and single, his life revolved around long hours at a sales job and evenings spent in the confines of his apartment, often plagued by loneliness.
“I frequently thought about ending it all during my commute,” Kim shared in an interview with Al Jazeera. “The hardest part was having no one to confide in. After work, I’d bounce between TV channels or immerse myself in video games,” he recounted.
As treasured connections at work dwindled, desperation crept in, especially after the shocking loss of a close friend at their office.
“That moment made me question, ‘Am I next?’” Kim reflected.
This prompted a pivotal decision: to leave behind the career opportunities of a city housing nearly 9.6 million people. Over the years, Seoul’s population has been on a slow decline, notably among its youth, with numbers dwindling from 3.18 million in 2016 to 2.86 million in 2023.
Despite Seoul’s reputation as a hub for high-paying jobs, recent census data revealed a troubling trend—equally high numbers of young people are leaving as are moving in.
‘Hell Joseon’: The Work-Life Struggle
This phenomenon raises concerns amidst Seoul’s transformation into a cultural and technological epicenter, frequently hailed by international travelers. Companies like LG and Hyundai Motors attract young professionals, while districts like Gangnam showcase cutting-edge art and global beauty trends.
Yet, it is this very competitive atmosphere—a product of grueling work hours and soaring living costs—that has led many young adults to label life in Seoul as “Hell Joseon,” a colloquial reference to the historical kingdom that once occupied the region.
Yoo Hye-jeong from the Korean Peninsula Population Institute for Future remarked, “Our society is infamous for demanding long hours, pushing women out of their careers after childbirth, and making it challenging for men to pursue paternity leave.”
This work-centric culture, coupled with exorbitant housing and educational expenses, makes establishing a family financially daunting for many.
Welcoming Change in Mokpo
For Kim, an unexpected ad for a getaway program at Don’t Worry Village in Mokpo— a quaint coastal city in South Korea’s southwest with a population of roughly 210,000—offered a glimmer of hope. This village, founded by fellow Seoul expatriate Hong Dong-joo, emerged as an alternative for those weary of urban life.
Hong, who deviated from a promising corporate future, envisioned a community for young adults longing for connection and respite from societal pressures.
“This village aims to foster a sense of belonging, something our society desperately lacks,” he explained, having initiated the project after hearing the struggles of countless individuals during his time in the travel agency sector.
A Crisis in Values
Experts characterize the challenges facing South Korea’s young population as a “national emergency,” with many young people feeling increasingly isolated within a rapidly advancing society lacking a robust support system.
Research from the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs underscores this sentiment, revealing a collective societal focus on material wealth over familial bonds. In stark contrast to other developed nations, South Koreans prioritize financial stability above all.
Surging Rates of Isolation and Loneliness
With a rising trend of single-person households—64% of which belong to young individuals—loneliness is now a pervasive issue. A recent survey indicated that over 62% of these individuals reported chronic isolation, exacerbating emotional distress and vulnerability.
In 2023, South Korea ranked low on life satisfaction among OECD countries. Unfortunately, its suicide rate remains the highest, with young adults bearing a significant burden.
Initiatives to Combat Loneliness
Recognizing these challenges, the South Korean government has implemented the “Seoul Without Loneliness” initiative, committing significant funds over five years to combat feelings of isolation with support services, community outreach, and social engagement programs.
Mokpo’s Don’t Worry Village represents a pioneering step towards developing youth-friendly environments beyond the urban milieu. Here, financial assistance is provided to encourage young adults to relocate and participate in community-building workshops.
Kim’s transition to Mokpo greatly enriched his life, facilitating new friendships and leisure opportunities. “In a smaller city, it’s easy to meet others,” he noted, contrasting it starkly with Seoul’s impersonal atmosphere where interactions are often superficial.
Looking Beyond Urban Pressures
Hong’s life also transformed after relocating. He met his wife in Mokpo and embraced the slower pace, feeling less burdened by societal expectations compared to the relentless grind of city life.
For others, like Park Myung-ho and Kim Min-jee, leaving high-stakes careers in Seoul for a more balanced life in Mokpo was pivotal. They’ve since established fulfilling businesses that allowed them greater freedom and a sense of community.
The Broader Appeal of Rural Life
Despite their success stories, the broader migration from Seoul remains a challenge, with many young adults feeling tethered to a city where opportunities and essential services are concentrated. As some seek work abroad through programs like Canada’s working holiday visa, they spotlight the sometimes overwhelming pressures to conform in South Korean society.
The shift for many is palpable, as individuals like Brianna Lee express a longing for a more relaxed lifestyle, characterized by respect and personal space.
In essence, while Seoul continues to be a vibrant metropolis, the narratives emerging from places like Mokpo highlight a growing desire among South Korea’s youth for connection, fulfillment, and a life undetermined by rigid societal expectations.