South Korea is grappling with a growing emotional pandemic: loneliness. As young people withdraw from society, choosing isolation over connection, the phenomenon known as hikikomori, a Japanese term referring to reclusive individuals, has gained alarming prevalence. In 2022, it was estimated that up to 244,000 South Koreans had withdrawn from the world, spending their lives locked inside their rooms for months at a time.This withdrawal from social life has stark consequences. The number of "lonely deaths" has also surged, reaching 3,661 last year, up from 3,559 in 2022, and 3,378 in 2021, according to data from the Ministry of Health and Welfare. These figures reflect a sobering reality as an increasing number of South Koreans are dying alone, often unnoticed for extended periods.Part of the rise in lonely deaths can be attributed to the ministry’s broader definition. In the past, only deaths where bodies were discovered after a significant delay were counted. Now, anyone who dies in social isolation—cut off from family or friends, whether from suicide or illness—is included in the category. This shift highlights the growing crisis of isolation, particularly among middle-aged and elderly men. More than 84% of lonely deaths in 2023 were male, with men in their 50s and 60s accounting for more than half of the total.South Korea’s demographic trends are further exacerbating the issue. With an aging population and declining birth rates, deaths have consistently outpaced births in recent years, contributing to the overall rise in lonely deaths. Yet, beyond the numbers lies a deeper cultural issue: the struggle with loneliness, which is experienced differently in South Korea compared to other countries.While loneliness is a universal feeling, it manifests uniquely in South Korea. According to psychology professor An, “Koreans may not necessarily feel lonelier than others, but the reasons behind their loneliness differ.” In many cultures, loneliness stems from unfulfilled relationships, but in South Korea, people often associate loneliness with a lack of purpose or a sense of inadequacy. Many Millennials and Gen Z Koreans are deeply self-critical, afraid of failure, and sensitive to societal expectations.A 2023 study highlighted that loneliness in Korea is shaped by cultural nuances. Korean society emphasizes relational orientation, meaning people often define themselves in relation to others. As a result, even those with active social lives may feel profound loneliness if they perceive themselves as not contributing meaningfully to society. The intense pressure to achieve, combined with rising single-person households, reduced social interactions, and the dominance of social media, fuels feelings of inadequacy.“When everyone pursues the same values excessively, we end up losing ourselves,” An explained. “Our society demands highly collective social living but often fails to respect the individual,” leaving many struggling with isolation and failure. As South Korea continues to navigate this emotional crisis, addressing loneliness remains a complex challenge requiring cultural and structural shifts.