Mental Health Stigma and Access to Care in Korea

Graphic by Chloe Kang

South Korea is a nation known for its rapid economic growth and technological advancements. However, in recent years, despite South Korea being one of the most developed countries in the world, South Korea has seen a rise in the number of people struggling with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Researchers have found out that 7 out of 10 Koreans experience mental health problems. There are several reasons this problem may have arose. Some examples are that students may feel pressure to do well in school, or adults that experience stress from work. The country’s competitive education system and long work hours create a lot of stress, which can lead to problems like anxiety and depression. In addition to that, the fast pace of life, economic uncertainty, and feelings of loneliness have made mental health issues worse, especially among young people and the elderly. With little open discussion about mental health, it has become harder for people to manage their struggles, leading to more people suffering. The country’s mental health landscape is plagued by significant challenges, including stigma, social pressures, and barriers to accessing care. South Korea’s culture of collectivism, emphasis on social harmony, and the fear of being labeled weak have contributed to widespread stigma around mental health issues. The country consistently ranks high in suicide rates among the developed nations, with mental health disorders often going untreated due to societal and systemic hurdles.

Despite this major issue, many Koreans are still reluctant to seek help for their mental health. One big reason of this is social stigma—residents often worry that if others find out they are struggling, they will be judged or seen as weak. The concept of "face" (체면, chemyon) is a significant factor that influences how mental health is perceived in Korean society. Losing face or bringing shame to one’s family is considered worse than suffering in silence. As a result, many Koreans who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders often choose to hide their struggles rather than risk being judged. Even among friends and family, discussing mental health is avoided, which perpetuates the cycle of stigma and shame. This fear of what others might think makes it hard for them to reach out for support. The situation has become a significant public health concern, affecting the well-being of individuals across all age groups. 

Due to the pervasive stigma, mental health services in South Korea are underutilized. Studies have shown that less than 10% of South Koreans who experience mental health disorders seek professional help. Those who do seek assistance often face barriers such as limited mental health resources, lack of specialized services, and prohibitive costs. 

Compounding the problem is the fact that there are not enough mental health professionals to meet the growing demand for care. While some progress has been made, particularly in larger cities like Seoul, there remains a shortage of therapists and counselors, especially in rural areas. Many mental health services are costly and not fully covered by national insurance, making it even harder for people to access the support they need. As a result, those who need help often find themselves with few options, unable to receive timely support, which makes their situation worse. 

In recent years, the South Korean government has made efforts to improve mental health services by investing in mental health education, increasing the availability of counseling services in schools, and launching campaigns to reduce stigma. However, these initiatives are still in their early stages, and it will take time to change deep-seated cultural beliefs and attitudes. A promising sign that South Korea is beginning to address its mental health crisis is that public awareness has increased. This is partly due to the influence of celebrities speaking out about their mental health struggles. The tragic suicides of several high-profile figures, including K-pop idols, have sparked national conversations about the pressures of fame, societal expectations, and the urgent need for better mental health care.

The issue of mental health stigma and limited access to care in South Korea is complex, deeply rooted in cultural, social, and systemic factors. While progress is being made, there is still much work to be done to ensure that mental health is treated with the same seriousness as physical health. Reducing stigma and improving access to care will require a multi-faceted approach that includes education, policy reforms, and cultural change. As more South Koreans, especially the younger generation, become willing to address mental health openly, there is hope that the country can overcome these barriers and build a more supportive environment for those who are struggling. By embracing change and fostering empathy, South Korea can pave the way for a healthier, more inclusive society.