Teen obesity in South Korea has reached a concerning high, now leading among the four major East Asian countries ? South Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan. The problem has worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic, signaling an urgent need for focused public health efforts.
According to AKOM News, the obesity rate among children and adolescents rose to 18.7% in 2022, up from 14.4% in 2018. Children ages 10 to 11 showed the highest obesity rate. This increase is closely tied to unhealthy eating habits driven by popular food trends among youth, including brown sugar drinks, spicy hot pots (malatang), candied fruits (tanghulu), and yogurt-based ice creams ? all high in calories and sugar.
Teen obesity is not just a cosmetic issue. Establishing healthy habits during adolescence is critical for lifelong well-being. Therefore, a coordinated response from families, schools, and public health institutions is urgently needed to promote balanced diets, regular physical activity, and long-term lifestyle changes to address this growing crisis.
Surim For The Junior Times junior/1750138802/1678407625
1. When did teen obesity increase?
2. What foods are high in sugar and calories?
3. Why are healthy habits important early?
4. Who needs to help with this problem?
1. What is your favorite fruit or veggie?
2. How often do you exercise?
3. Should schools teach more about health?
4. How can people stay healthy every day?
Teen obesity in South Korea has reached a concerning high, now leading among the four major East Asian countries ? South Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan. The problem has worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic, signaling an urgent need for focused public health efforts.
