Concerns regarding daily life vary, from studies and career choices to employment.
But a survey on seven-thousand average Koreans showed that there is one topic that nearly
half of the respondents have in common.
Money.
Or better said, chances to continue earning money.
Lee Ji-won has more.
What are Koreans most concerned about?
"I am most worried about my life after retirement.
I haven't been able to prepare for it."
"I will be graduating soon, and I am worried about finding a job."
"My mother's health is my biggest concern as of now."
According to a research on some 7-thousand Koreans over 19 years old, about 25 percent
of the respondents were most concerned about their post-retirement plans, while about 18
percent placed their worries on employment and income,... whereas a bit over 26 percent
were concerned about other issues such as family relations.
The researchers said the results reflect the current problems in the Korean economy.
"As life expectancy increased, more senior citizens now have more years to live... but
with limited working time in their lives, they are pressed to reduce spending.
And such reduction in spending is one reason for the sluggish domestic demand."
But to revitalize the economy, experts say structural reforms are not enough.
The government must work to allow the senior population more opportunities and time to
earn income, such as pushing the retirement age along with expanding more loans like reverse
mortgage loans to help them liquidate their assets for spending.
"The expert added...
if the government's structural reforms are successful, it will boost consumption and
job creation,... easing the financial burden on the public.
Lee Ji-won, Arirang News."