Korea has a higher life expectancy than its OECD peers — but also the highest suicide rate

South Korea continues to report the highest suicide rate among OECD countries, despite improvements in overall health indicators. In 2022, Korea recorded 23.2 suicides per 100,000 people—more than double the OECD average of 10.7. Although this represents a 23.4% decline from 30.3 in 2012, it still remains the highest among member nations. This persistent issue contrasts sharply with Korea’s high life expectancy of 83.5 years and low infant mortality rate. The data highlights a troubling mental health landscape in a country that otherwise ranks well in healthcare access and longevity. Despite growing public healthcare coverage and reduced out-of-pocket costs, mental health outcomes, particularly suicide, remain a major concern in Korea’s social and healthcare systems.

Suicide rate high in all generations, but it is the highest among the older generation (over 70s) because of the poverty rate of the elderly. It hasn’t been long since the pension system was established, and many elderly people are poor. But people just ignore it because suicide of the elderly is benefitable for economy.