Korean teens face rising health risks as school years progress

A recent study has revealed worrying trends in the health and habits of Korean adolescents. As students progress through school, their physical well-being declines, with rising rates of substance use, poor nutrition, and inactivity becoming more pronounced.

The findings highlight particular risks during the transition to middle school, where exposure to alcohol and other harmful behaviours often begins.

The research shows a sharp increase in smoking and drinking as students grow older. In sixth grade, only 0.35% reported using tobacco, but by the second year of high school, this figure jumped to 9.59%. Alcohol use is even more widespread, with 60.8% having tried it and 33.7% consuming at least one full glass.

Breakfast skipping has also become common, with 33% of students missing the meal at least five days a week. Meanwhile, only 13.5% meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Nutritional habits are worsening too, as fruit, vegetable, and milk consumption continue to drop.

Digital overuse is another concern, with 35.1% of adolescents showing signs of smartphone overdependence. Anxiety levels are also notable, as 8% reported moderate or higher symptoms. For the first time, liquid e-cigarette use (1.54%) among second-year high school girls has surpassed traditional cigarette smoking (1.33%).

The study underscores a clear pattern: health risks escalate as Korean adolescents advance in school. From rising substance use to declining physical activity and poor dietary habits, the data points to a growing challenge. Early intervention, particularly during the critical transition to middle school, may be key to reversing these trends.