Is Korea Really the 'Most Depressed' Country in the World? | Street Interview

[@AsianBoss]

This was our top-voted video last month by the members of our Asian Boss community. Become a member at AsianBoss.io to have your say in selecting our next video topic and get access to all our early releases. We’ve also made several exclusive videos from our membership platform available for free, so enjoy: asianboss.io/yt/123-exclusivevideos

[@justavideodiary]

Your videos are always excellent, thanks for the effort, time and energy you put in them.

[@jamesrawlins735]

I'm not sure I agree with the premise. I would say sub-Sahara African nations are even more depressed (when nothing grows and there is constant warfare, it's hard to feel anything but depression). I also suspect that North Korea is even more depressed, but it is impossible to get an accurate reading of how its citizens objectively feel. The World Health Organization rated Greenland as the most depressed nation, followed by Greece and Palestine (but I suspect Palestine might now be no. 1 considering the current situation with Israel.)

[@woopygoman]

Japanese thoughts on the new Shogun FX miniseries would be very nice!

[@grandsonMarquis]

​@@woopygomanThe Japanese aren't actually rich. Their quality of life is similar to what South Koreans look like for 20 years. They've been stagnant for 40 years..

[@grandsonMarquis]

The downside of Koreans is that they are insatiable and always move forward. And they are full of complaints. They should know how good the environment and conditions they live in. That kind of mental world has led to Korea's rapid development. But too much greed is not good for your mental health! You guys are enjoying the best of life. More than 99 percent of the world's countries are insecurely living with hard jobs in homes and environments that are worse off than you guys are. You guys are living in a better environment than Americans.

[@heididlr5433]

Happiness is subjective. In our modern world, we often believe that comparison leads to growth, but in reality, it can steal our joy.

[@adityaanand.]

Couldn't agree more that comparing yourself is the vilest thing you can do to yourself! Being competitive is good but not comparative.

[@nekokaori7153]

I think that happiness is objective, because is an emotional state, but the source of that happiness is subjective because is not the same for everyone.

[@twotec-9s]

It's really a mix of moralistic and materialistic things that cause more effect. As with competition, collaboration has always done better.

[@unvaccinatedAndPureBlood]

If you are chasing happiness then the opposite is true, sadness, and the cycle is never ending. A better state to be in is stoicism and to be content. Therefore nothing affects you.

[@twotec-9s]

@@unvaccinatedAndPureBlood Be a sigma basically.

[@mempto]

I appreciate hearing these thoughtful, nuanced answers.

[@lm95gbns94]

'nuanced.'

[@CharlesDarwinBarkley]

very few would admit they're unhappy on cam

[@far-middle]

@truthshouldntoffend-yv5gc I think you will find that people in Japan and s Korea express themselves to friends just like other places, except when they interact with strangers or co-workers they're encouraged to suppress it.

[@MichaelJonesC-4-7]

@@far-middle And that is why they say that Westerners are too forward, too outspoken, too individualistic, and too loud. Nah. We're just not a self - "suppress" - ing culture. "Free your mind, and your body will follow." - someone famous, I guess

[@etas1c]

@truthshouldntoffend-yv5gc That's juts your biased opinion. There is no 1 country that's the best or worse for every1, just cuz you can't succeed there doesn't mean others can't. And just cuz you succeed somewhere doesn't mean others will.

[@etas1c]

@truthshouldntoffend-yv5gc As I said before, your taste and your idea of a good country isn't the same as everyone else's

[@DepressionOfMyCat]

yeah exactly. and then you have to talk about why and who would want that really. to admit that you are unhappy you need to be confident. and most unhappy people are not very confident

[@1988kcmo]

Something I noticed living in Korea is there's very little color. Almost everyone wears muted colors or white/black. The apartment forests are nearly all white. Cars are almost all black/white/gray. I felt depressed many times there and lack of color was a contributing factor IMO......except the food! Plenty of color there!

[@doomprelude673]

'백의민족' is a nickname of the Korean people, which originated from the fact that Koreans mainly wore white clothes. Upon arrival in Korea, Oppert(a Jewish merchant of Prussia) wrote '조선기행' . "the color of clothes is white for both men and women," and Choi Nam-seon's book, "The Joseon people's reverence for white clothing has been such a long time since ancient times, and they have consistently worn white clothes in (부여)Buyeo people thousands of years ago, and later in (신라)Silla, (고려)Goryeo, and (조선)Joseon." Yanagi Muneyoshi wrote, "China, especially Japan, uses a variety of colors on their dresses, but this is not the case in Joseon. They wear only white without color. It is almost colorless clothes even by color. Why does everyone, regardless of age or sex, dress in white? There are many countries and ethnic groups in the world, but there is no such thing as(조선)Joseon." These records can also be found in ancient times, and in the case of the "(삼국지)Samgukji" in China, "White clothes are important in (부여)Buyeo, so people wear wide-sleeve coats, pants made of white linen, and leather shoes."Related records can also be found in (고구려)Goguryeo, (신라)Silla, and (고려)Goryeo. It is presumed that the traditions of the Korean people who enjoy wearing white clothes are very old. 한민족의 흰옷 선호에는 비움과 절제의 미학이나 꾸미지 않은 자연 그대로의 색을 강조하는 경향이 많은 영향을 끼쳤다. The Korean people's preference for white clothes was greatly influenced by the aesthetics of emptiness and temperance or the tendency to emphasize unadorned natural colors. -Sources: Encyclopedia of Korean culture

[@doomprelude673]

There must be influence of such a history, and as a Korean,I often wear white,black,gray clothes because I don't want to stand out.

[@doomprelude673]

In addition, white,black,gray cars are often preferred by consumers because they don't stand out, and Koreans consider the amount of money they will sell to the used car market later. If you buy a yellow car in Korea and sell it later, you will be offered a much lower price than a white,black,gray car.

[@Chicken82747]

⁠@@doomprelude673I think it’s mostly due to the culture that Asians in general have fostered. The whole ideology of being humble, and staying discreet is widely prevalent throughout Asia. Wearing bright colors stand out too much, and a lot of people associate bright colors with children. Wearing plain colors like brown, black, and white signify maturity and adulthood. It’s a bunch of factors such as culture, caring about what others think of you, and etc. All these factors contribute to the larger whole; and that larger whole is a society. There’s also research being done where scientists have discovered that as time and our society progresses, the world becomes less colorful. Even when you’re a kid, the world is a lot more colorful. However, when you grow older, you notices that things are less colorful, and life seems more dull. But that’s a whole other topic.

[@twotec-9s]

@@Chicken82747 Wonderful way to put it, i'm Asian and couldn't agree more

[@messageinabottle9671]

Life is so short ...so love yourself and be really happy with or without material things.

[@인생은아름다워-z1m]

There is no such thing as living without material things... Only the people with money can have better opportunities rather thatn those without money.

[@messageinabottle9671]

@@인생은아름다워-z1m When we die we cannot even take an ounce of material things from this world. Those "with" and place in a situation "without" and vice versa and not complain are the kindest and happiest type of people. If a person can do that then he/she has the wisdom .

[@alantes]

Life is not short enough to not care about having a house or being able to put food on the table. You are not a butterfly. Both of those are material things.

[@forlua9211]

00:03:11 The same question if it was asked in a Buddhist country like Thailand the answer would be "totally different". Despite of history of Buddhism in Korea, surprisingly, Korean people shows almost no sign of Buddhist mentality. The Korean society is pretty much a Confucian society where everyone is occupied with climbing the social ladder. In Buddhist society, people see the social ladder as the thing that one can choose to either climb to the top, stop at some level that person feels comfortable or happy, or even doesn't climb it at all. All these choices will not be judged by other people. But in Confucian society, people tend to think only the people on the top of the ladder can be happy, where the rest are considered as losers.

[@mandy11254]

It's a double-edged sword. It's what enabled SK to go from being one of the poorest countries just ~50 years ago to now being one of the most recognized and high-achieving countries. Ofc the downside of this is the social norms and expectations that come with it. A lot of people from neighboring/close countries (including Thailand) move to SK for work. In fact, it became such a big "issue" that it stirred up some news surrounding Thai (undocumented) immigration not so long ago. It's bc of one of the benefits that come with this type of mentality you speak ill of: opportunities and increasing income.

[@ns-4438]

@@mandy11254 You're 100% right. Competitive society is what made Korea a developed nation. The thing is that back in the day, Koreans only compared themselves to their friends and neighbors, and it was possible for them to catch up with them. For example, if your neighbor bought a house, you can do the same with your salary. However, it's not possible to do that and plus, we have internet and social media today, so you can see how rich people who live far away from you through your phone screen, and that makes Koreans especially the young people feel like they're behind and not fitting the standards.

[@forlua9211]

​@@mandy11254 According to my comment, I did not judge anything as "good" or "bad". It is just a pure observation that I want to give people a comparative example, good or bad is subjective here. Indeed, different countries value different things. In Thailand, people value happiness (in Buddhist sense), but In other countries, people could prefer achievements, hard work, money, etc. My opinion is that one should "not be too extreme" because it could lead to many social problems. That's it.

[@forlua9211]

@@mandy11254 Apart from Korea's or Japan's economic development models, there are also models like the Scandinavian countries where socialism plays an important role in preventing the countries from becoming a rat race society. Germany is also a good example where people have a high degree of freedom, and no one cares about what you do, be whatever what you want. People in all these countries have quite a good work-life balance. The so-called double-edged sword is not the only economic development model in this world, there are many alternatives. Better or worse depending on the context of each country. No model can fit all.

[@MayaTheDecemberGirl]

​@@forlua9211Work-life balance it's generally a concept supported in the EU (so definitely not only in Scandinavia or Germany), even it's mentioned directly in some of the EU directives.

[@lcsh77]

I was lucky that when I was in elementary school, I had a teacher who told us that there is no point comparing yourself with others and from that point on, I simply didn’t compare myself with others again (although sometimes it happens subconsciously and then I would consciously tell myself to not do that). But I don’t think it may be that easy for everyone to do the same. I recently read I want to die but I want to eat Tteokbokki and the writer talked about how she couldn’t help but compare herself with others, despite knowing that she shouldn’t, and that’s one of the reasons why she was depressed. While it’s good that Koreans are becoming more aware of what causes their unhappiness and how to avoid it, I think it’s important to be able to seek professional help when you still find yourself struggling.

[@TalesOfTrillions]

The emphasis on competition and the pressure to conform can definitely take a toll on mental health. It's time for some real changes and open conversations. 💬

[@MADEbySOUL]

If mental health professionals are accessible in your country, please check in. One can “get used to” depression to the point they have it so long they don’t know how it is to feel different. One just mistaken sums it to sleep deprivation and everyday fatigue of commuting. Personally faced that and it took being put on a stretcher in front of coworkers to see that.

[@YoonJintae98]

I love the mother, shes many of the mothers i know, sweet and considering. I hope SK people live more happily.

[@dvdfll]

Been living in Korea for 5 years now. Long and cold grey winters affect mental health definitely.

[@thomasgrabkowski8283]

Yep and summer in Korea doesn't help improve mental health either due to it being very rainy instead of sunny. Like for example in Europe, Canada and northern US, despite winter being long, cold and grey, at least there's lots of sunshine in summer for people to enjoy

[@dommeca123]

정말로 한국인이 우울한 이유가 날씨 때문이면 좋겠네요.....ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

[@abdiellawrence397]

@@thomasgrabkowski8283 August in Korea.....ABSOLUTELY NOT. Been there, done that and got the sweat rags from Seoul to Geoje to prove it. 🥵🥵🥵

[@vega4147]

Oh, come to Germany. You would realize Korean winter is much sunnier than here. But I agree Korean winter is colder and summer is hotter. Even the weather is extrem in Korea 😅.

[@abdiellawrence397]

@@vega4147 Facts...you must go to Spain for sun during the winter time.🤣🤣🤣

[@jungersrules]

Happiness is an emotion. Depression is not about whether you're happy or not because you cannot sustain any emotion for long periods of time. The lady with the two sons who provide for her, she's a prime example of a content person. I just don't think we should equate an emotion with a mental illness. One, that can be misinterpreted whenever someone says they aren't happy. Two, being constantly happy is not the norm.

[@visualbeauty3427]

I'm so sorry dealing it's no joke it gave me a heartbreak.

[@eudaemonia3134]

That is insightful, and this comment made me think. I seemingly can't define what makes me happy, how to define/ measure and balance short and long term happiness, and what that looks like for me. I never seem to find the answer as that changes with age. I also wonder wether I overetimate these things. I'll go and ponder more about that now. Thank you

[@Chriseyasuo]

You are wrong. An healty human Is Happy,in peace most of the time. Happyness Is not only euphoric status my friend.

[@ns645]

I'm a foreigner living in Korea. Recently, I had a bad mental health episode. I went to my psychiatrist and told him I wanted to (unalive) and I hated myself. He laughed and said "so what? Are you from a third world village? Who doesn't feel like that? Just don't do k--- yourself. Take your meds and go. You're fine. You're normal." And I was so frustrated by the sentiment because it felt like he wasn't listening to me when I really needed the help. But it made me wonder if I'm also surrounded by people in Korea who just feel the same.

[@rickyayy]

You are surrounded by the same. You're not alone.

[@tutsy7612]

Am so sorry you faced that kind of attitude, especially from a professional in that field who should really know better 😢. I hope you're in a better place now. Wishing you health and happiness!

[@raycigar6356]

Wait that's what that professional told you?! That's sounds like a quack to me...

[@Jsarmy87124]

What the hell! This is not normal at all ! you should see another one pills are not working alone

[@waitingforapril]

They need to lose their professional license.

[@bluasterisk]

As an American going through engineering in college, the smartest guy I knew was Korean. I thought he was amazing acing all the exams. To think being in Korea and so many other talented people are your competition, I can't imagine needing to be more than perfect to survive.

[@andreicristian9575]

It's great to see how other parts of the world think.

[@jedicouncil66]

Just want to say- Never give up! You were born for a reason and no matter what, we have to push beyond our limits and honor those who have come before. Sadness and depression are temporary. I hope everyone is living to the fullest.

[@eddenoy321]

What is the reason we were born? I really want to know.

[@Chicken82747]

@@eddenoy321that is a question people have been trying to answer for thousands of years. Unless you’re in a religion, that question will always remain a mystery…

[@9y2bgy]

@@eddenoy321 I would ask you why this question is important. If you believe the journey is as important as the destination, then I think searching for the answer to your question is enough of an incentive to live a meaningful life.

[@AbbyA-z6j]

Totally agree with the don't give up bit. I've been reduced to just needing to keep myself alive until sunrise (the guilty feeling after speaking to family members dampened the suicidal thoughts). But I fear for those with no one to miss or mourn them.

[@pourquoipas971]

Well it sounds strange to read « we were born for a reason » 😅it sounds like a rationalization … we are the result of two gametes winning a competition …at least the male one!!! 😂… it makes you feel good OR important, maybe to think that way?

[@bakurachan]

10:40 I have been living in Japan, and I am content in my small two room apartment. Whenever I visit family in the USA and talk to people in the States, they always talk about buying a huge house... like that is the dream.... I couldn't imagine the stress of furnishing and keeping a whole house and yard. Even the small house that my relatives have... they spend so much money and effort on it... For me... having a house isn't happiness but I think it really different for each person.

[@sleefy2343]

Japan is the most depressed Asian country i swear

[@cklg88]

Yes, America is filled with nothing but greed, Capitalism, and racism. And, I'm not talking about towards blacks but towards whites and Asians from blacks. America has no culture nor do any of the people want to know their culture and where they are from. Stay away from America.

[@lin-hl5ky]

@@sleefy2343 no i lived in japan many years and it’s not lol update your information pls there are worse countries than japan in that regard

[@lin-hl5ky]

⁠​⁠@@sleefy2343 china is more depressed in my experience

[@tuskanu]

Unfortunately we live in a world where most people are depressed because they think they don't have enough money and the only cure is more money. Social media amplifies this. Be happy with what material possessions you have. Work harder to get more. But most importantly work harder on relationships and start a family. You'll realise that there is more to life than being depressed about money

[@theoriginaltoba]

@@hannesRSAwhat do you mean, “most people aren’t depressed”? Could you elaborate on that?

[@theoriginaltoba]

Exactly! Starting a family, while stressful, will bring you so much joy that people try to get from temporary things.

[@Jsarmy87124]

Hmm no its because of all murders wars everywhere! People who are mean .harassed you .. not pretty the weight.....

[@9y2bgy]

@@theoriginaltoba for some yes. There are many people who don't see starting their own family as the ultimate route to happiness. Many.......

[@Leminisca]

@@theoriginaltoba when you have no money and start a family it will be extremely stressful

[@avalonnite9179]

As a American i know a lot of young depressed people and I have two friends who have committed suicide. It is as bad or almost as bad in America. This is a global problem now. Our society are decaying morally because we aren't learning the most important thing is family and love. As corny as it sounds its important but most people idolize money, wealth and high level career. Don't be fouled by these things you should follow your hearts calling and spend more time with family and friends. If governments wants to fix it they should trying doubling people wages and reducing hours and promoting social evens where young people can meet other people in the company or have social events with other neighbor companies and have a sporting event.

[@rico-o9c]

paradox of feminism. collapse of family means collapse of society. we are on the path.

[@vianiexplore123]

These people have never felt how to live in my state in India. We don’t even have proper roads to travel and regular electricity. Sometimes power cut for 3 days or more. We don’t even have a single mobile tower in my village(1000 household village) and when electricity goes off, network also goes off. The last generation of my parents are almost farmers who grow own crops and sell vegetables or some domestic chickens or pigs when needed money. My mom sells organic garlic and cabbages grown by her and we could do our school bills. One last word- We live so happily!!!! I cannot imagine these people not happy despite of having good clothes to wear and comfortable buildings to live in.

[@mushroomcrepes]

It's just human nature, schools and jobs are so competitive it feels like your life is over if you do bad cause you'll struggle with getting anything decent for god knows how long.

[@karansagarkathuria7763]

Maybe happiness came from the closeness with the people you loved and the time you spent together. Watching them struggle hard to see you prosper must have made you feel invaluable. That's not the case in urban areas I guess and thus the sadness.

[@dkkwon1980]

“Ask yourself whether you are happy, and you cease to be so.” John Stuart Mill

[@sanyuelpuganda3581]

Awesome street interviews you make Asian Boss! RESPECT! I am amazed at how the people respond to the questions with mesmerizing and intellectual seriousness that keeps the viewer engaged!!

[@chuongtuan1983]

thanks for interview. Appreciate.

[@heynhamnham]

You don't hear news about depression but you hear lots of news about unaliving oneself. This indicates that there isn't even a time of suffering or searching for help, it goes straight to unaliving

[@marklechadores5574]

I would theorize that south korean individuals are more concerned about their futures in a highly competitive labor market, which they alleviate in korean bbq with soju, karaoke bars and restaurants amongst other things to do.

[@theofficialpeterkim]

Comparison is the thief of joy. - Teddy Rosevelt

[@hder9]

not Teddy bear?

[@darinak22]

Such a good Interview indeed

[@Joe-li3zj]

@asiaboss I would love to see some interviews of Korea from smaller towns, villages, countryside, factory towns, outside urbanity.

[@DikshaKumari-123]

It's easier to give advise or saying I am happy but it cant be helped if you are sad because life will become boring if you are happy only or sad only.If we really want to sustain in this society then we have to balanced both our emotion.

[@kayrealist9793]

Most people dont want to tell strangers they are depressed.

[@日本ジョリーン]

So sad... There's so much repression and pressure to achieve the unattainable in SK. On top of that, mental health is seen as a joke. I genuinely feel bad for the unhappy Koreans that feel stuck. How can anyone be happy under those conditions?

[@Assarabiyah]

But we can. Our quality of life is quite nice. Our life expectancy is one of the highest in the world. Social welfare is quite nice, crime rate is very low. Almost every problem in Korea due to the high standards and comparing themselves to others. All 'Dystopia' images of Korea are quite exaggerated. Unless your dream is doctor and you are a high school student.

[@DoctorStrange01]

@@Assarabiyah Everything must be exaggerated about the "dystopia" image for sure, that's why the suicide rates and depression are one of the highest in the world :D Please... if anything, it just proves that it's anything but exaggerated. Koreans interviewed in this video literally say themselves about the big problems of Korean society, they're not foreigners. One thing i've noticed with Koreans talking about this whole depression topic is that a lot of people deny it's really like that, but at the same time you have a lot of proof with Koreans themselves talking about how shitty the societal expectations and peer pressure are there.

[@Assarabiyah]

@DoctorStrange01 Have you seen the world HDI? We live the best life in Asia. The problem is just high standards. Other asians came here to do jobs we don't want to do it. It's a first world problem. Our life is good, but still unhappy because we want more high dimensional things. We eat good food, can get good healthcare, we can travel a lot, crime rates are very low, and social welfare is good enough to live without stable jobs. We live in like the highest 5% life in the world, the world is too miserable to sympathize us.

[@Assarabiyah]

@@DoctorStrange01 Our life expectancy is #3 in the world next to Japan and Switzerland. How can you consider us 'DYSTOPIA'? We live 10 years more than average Chinese, 15 years more than Indians, 30 years more than Nigerians.

[@user-cnksi223]

I've lived in Korea, Japan, the United States, Europe, and the Philippines. Each country has its pros and cons. In Europe, the short working hours and not having to give your all at work make for a happier work life. But as a customer, the slow and often poor service can be frustrating, and there's not much to do in the evenings. The high salaries in the U.S. are a plus, but the cost of living is high, and there's a lack of basic social welfare systems. Safety isn't great in both Europe and the U.S. Japan shares many similarities with Korea. It's safe, has good social welfare systems, and nights aren't boring. Enjoying healing time at Japanese hot springs is a plus. However, working in Japanese companies can be tougher due to their analog approach, strict dress codes, slower pace, and poorly insulated homes. But the analog lifestyle can sometimes positively impact mental health. Despite being slower, Japan handles tasks perfectly. Korea is fast-paced, safe, and has good social welfare, but it also has its drawbacks like the pressure to always strive for improvement. Many Koreans are unaware that there are many cities in Korea that are more sophisticated and livable than Seoul. It's time to embrace a more comfortable and less self-conscious way of living.

[@MichaelJonesC-4-7]

In short, no where is purfekt. Take comfort in your friends. ; )

[@tsdfghjkl]

Japan and South Korea certainly have some cultural similarities, but I feel that the Japanese lifestyle is much more relaxed. Not as stressful, competitive and intense as Korea.

[@user-cnksi223]

@@tsdfghjkl Your point is valid. However, I find human relationships to be more challenging in Japan. In my view, individuals with outgoing and honest personalities would find it even harder to live in Japan. I have decided to maintain a broad perspective and continue to exercise mind control while enjoying the advantages of Korea. Oh, and on a side note, I personally would like to live in China someday. China turned out to be a more developed country than I expected, and the people were friendly. The diversity and vitality characteristic of a vast continental nation appealed to me.

[@nayadrama4167]

Did you live in Spain, because I can assure you that you have a nightlife, as a daylife ahahahah I lived in France, Spain and Thailand and Spain and Thailand have really simillary points. Same energy (even if Thailand is somehow +++). No country is perfect, you must find what suits you more ! I am going to try Taiwan next year ! I love Korea and Japan since teenager but yes, work culture and the society pressure is definitely too much for me !

[@user-cnksi223]

No, I haven't lived in Spain; I have lived in Italy and the UK before. After hearing your story, though, I feel like living in Spain. Thailand is also a country I really like. Haha, I want to visit Thailand again.

[@carmen7559]

In Singapore, pre-university students need to get BOTH good grades and good portfolio (extracurricular activities, volunteering, leadership service) to enter certain courses. This also puts a lot of pressure on the students to do well and everyone has more things to be obsessed about.

[@KimmyGibson]

The very high expectations vs. reality of life is too much. The competitive and exhausting effort young people put forth most of their young lives is daunting, yet in the end they may come to realize that they may never be able to afford to buy their own personal space...especially young men who must decide when is best time to put everything on hold for military. If they can't get even an apartment, how will they marry and have children....which....even if they did....the cycle just continues because the culture isn't changing. Korea is beautiful to look at and to visit, but I would never want to grow up in such a competitive and oppressive culture. I wonder how different it is for foreign people who marry into a Korean family. Do they fall into the stereotypical Korean 'way' or do they retain their own sensibiltiies? Do single, foreign, young people living there feel the same pressure and which pressures do they feel?

[@MissesWitch]

he managed to find himself a very beautiful girlfriend and you can tell he is very proud and happy about that!! just like he should be!

[@jakajancar1767]

Should invite her to speak, though 😬

[@PlayStationology]

Who are you referring to? The 4th person being interviewed?

[@salsipuedes8425]

Who

[@jonfreeman9682]

What hot girl are you talking about? Where?

[@marizcampolet2729]

In a country where looks, physical apperance, and money is the most important in life..what would you expect..Depression, constant fear, unhappiness,etc

[@andreicristian9575]

How did you reach that conclusion?

[@jonfreeman9682]

People get greedy and can cause depression. Alot of times it's all in our head.

[@D__634]

@@andreicristian9575there's a number of suic!de cases among Korean celebrities lately

[@Pandoraaaa408]

It’s more than that... Korea is such a tiny country and everyone is vying for such limited spots (well paying jobs for example), you can’t help but get that way. It not like in USA where the opportunities are limitless ..that’s why so many Koreans want to leave but they can’t cuz you need money and a sponsor in another country

[@godver555]

I know Korea and Japan are famous for their imbalanced work/life bakance but after having traveled through vietnam and thailand i can tell you that in South East Asia things are even worse. People work 10 hours per day often 7 days per week. Ive met people who work 8-9 hours a day everyday with no free day for over a month and often difficult shifts or double shifts resulting in 70+ hour work weeks. They hate it but dont complain because it is expected to survive and people are happy with the jobs they have, be it in the countryside working on the land or in a hostel as a receptionist. Its a pretty tough life out there.

[@D.2601]

It’s the same in India too.

[@ii4826]

Yeah, it's a stereotype to say that the Japanese work too much. According to the latest statistics, the Japanese work less than other Asians and even Americans.

[@user-co5ri8dp_978]

Working hours are long in Central and South America as well. I think Europe is probably special.

[@thomasgrabkowski8283]

@@user-co5ri8dp_978 Yep Europe is really privileged compared to rest of world in how much labor rights they have and their relatively low cost of living-income ratio which allows them to work less hours

[@Sanatani-p3t]

​@@D.2601How it's same in India bro? We have office 8 hrs work+1 hr lunch per day working for 5 days with Saturday and Sunday holidays in India mostly. Schools/colleges get closed by evening and holiday on Sunday atleast.

[@petsfamily8278]

The most dangerous about this situation is, they say happy but their face saying different. Something like this are often in Korea.

[@herminator250]

Terrific interview!

[@MichaelJonesC-4-7]

I was deployed to the ROK DMZ in March 1974. I served at Camp Garry Owen in Yongjugol. The young folks should see the change that my eyes see. I can't even recognize the place! They have come so far! I wish they could see their nation through my eyes. I feel honored to have played a small part in their story.

[@ChinnuWoW]

And now housing is unaffordable… not so great anymore.

[@MichaelJonesC-4-7]

@@ChinnuWoW I understand. When I was there, I rented an entire upstairs apartment complex of three adjoining rooms for $20 a month - split between four GIs.

[@christina.T1690]

My Grandpa served near the DMZ in 51. He would tell us about a time spent guarding, by himself, a huge pile of Korean coins, almost as big as a football field. The currency was so devalued, it was really only worth the metal it was made out of. Mothers would bring their small children to sneak under the barbed wire fence, gather as many coins as they could, then run back so they could melt the coins down to make cooking pots. The people were starving, and Grandpa understood that they were just trying to survive. But he has his orders to guard that money. He’d catch one kid, and toss them back over the fence to the mother. Then run across the money pile to catch the next one attempting to sneak in while he had his back turned. Suddenly, his superior officer drove his Jeep up to the top of the money pile where Grandpa was, screaming at him. “Soldier! I ordered you to shoot ANYONE who crosses that fence!” Grandpa was a Christian man, and shooting little children of any race wasn’t something he could live with. Grandpa handed his superior officer his rifle and said, “Sir, you shoot the first one.” His superior officer turned bright red, swore at Grandpa, threw his rifle back at him, got back in the Jeep and drove away. Grandpa wasn’t gonna shoot any kids. I’m so grateful to have gotten to spend some time with him in his final years, and hear stories like that as an adult. Grandpa was also amazed at the accomplishments of the South Korean people, developing such an prosperous society in his lifetime, compared to what he saw when he served in Korea at the very beginning stages of American involvement in that war.

[@MichaelJonesC-4-7]

@@christina.T1690 I couldn't have said it any better. The Korea of today was not the Korea your dad, or my dad, who also served in the Korean War, saw. It is not the same Korea I saw in 1974. It was all mud huts, mud rows for streets, and people working barefoot in the wet icy fields during winters - which often got to -58 degrees fahrenheit. I almost froze to death guarding an ammo dump one night. At least, it felt that way. Damn! That was the coldest I have ever been in my life, and I hope to never be that cold again. Ever. I don't know how the Koreans do it. My hat's off to them all.

[@panacea26947]

Thank you for your service🥰

[@Jimmy_Boy_Kalahati]

I've noticed that in the Korean language, there's a lot of speaking that just sounds 'sad'.

[@evadelle9153]

Seoul's bus game is on point

[@veemon]

Their trains are too!

[@shark1140]

개웃기네 정작한국인들은 괜찮다는데 한국인들도 아닌 외국인들이 왜 한국인들의 행복도를 논하는지?ㅋ 지들나라나 신경쓸것이지. 한국에서 충분히 행복하게 살사람은 행복하게 산다. Hilarious, even koreans say i'm okay and i'm enough happy but why do many non-koreans talk about korean happiness by their view or what they see superficially? Around me, there are enough koreans who are enjoying their lives and focus on their lives enough. Just i want to say" before judging about korean happiness, mind your country people's happiness imao 😂".

[@노력하자-r1z]

왜냐면 아시아계 외국인들의 인생이 시궁창에서 헤엄치고있으니까요.

[@IwantItalyPizza]

너무 날카롭게 얘기할 필요없음 그냥 웃고 넘기자 ㅋㅋ

[@yunablu6241]

Happiness is just a temporary feeling...but JOY in every circumstances means contentment, gratitude, learning the secret of having plenty and also having nothing...learning that circumstances in life make a person strong...

[@jennifersoucie7056]

Humans are much more dynamic than limited systems offer

[@fredlacroix6865]

korea in the international arena make themselves looks pretty from the outside but lacks substance overall

[@d3monsn0wkitty]

Working like a slave isn’t a very happy life.

[@grow1820]

bruh, I have lived in 5 countries, I am at Korea right now, every country I have been to, they all work hard.

[@woopygoman]

For most people, I would argue their job is their #1 source of misery. Personally, I say bring on more automation, AI & UBI.

[@jonfreeman9682]

You have to work hard everywhere. There's no easy life.

[@cklg88]

@user-lc4ud9mx3s Absolutely, I feel sorry for Americans but they've made their bed and now lie in it and stay there.

[@cklg88]

@@grow1820 aboslutely, I've lived and worked in America and people are all working 12-hour days when it's all said and done. And, honestly I found Americans to be the most rudes people in the world. Everyone in the world works hard, get a life and get to it, and find your balance. You don't think Germany works hard? You don't think China works hard. The problem with Americans they do nothing but complain, and hate their own lives. Because they live in a greedy capitalistic country.

[@peacew6]

You should try doing this interview at a poor neighborhood too. Things should have been discussed ; How many hours Korean Highschool students sleep, how many people perform plastic surgeries, low birth rates.

[@franzitaduz]

Life is a challenge worldwide. Given this country just started it’s road from domination in 1948, they must be exhausted from work and striving which depresses. But, they have given so much joy to the world. Cheers Korea, hang in there.

[@pearll7882]

The importance of family and creating offspring should be emphasized. Being 40, I realize having a big family is a blessing and a great source of happiness. Nothing comes closer to home

[@redchen3682]

While I appreciate this video’s efforts in raising awareness about mental health issues, particularly in Asia, I believe the last part deserves more focus. The thumbnail, though, is very clickbaity. I was eager to see how interviewees would respond to the question, ‘Are you depressed?’ or asked them if they know a close friend or a family member who is depressed. Their answers could reveal valuable insights into societal attitudes toward mental illness. If someone openly admits to being depressed, it could inspire others to overcome shame and stigma associated with mental health challenges.

[@alexander_sinclair]

I think instead of depression it is hopelessness. Everyone has the pressure of doing better and better when they're already exhausted. In the end it seems almost impossible so if you think about it that can lead to wanting to give up. It can just seem hopeless. It's like trying to push a boulder up a hill. At a certain point it becomes very very difficult and you want to give up. It seems like an impossible task. Then it just seems like life is a series of trying to push the same boulder up a hill. It can become very overwhelming and seem impossible or hopeless. That's when you give up and become "depressed" I guess. I think even the Westerns are starting to feel like this.

[@jjjjjly]

the 'most depressed' title should attribute to it's capital. Nobody is relexed in this city , literally everybody in this city are desperately chasing something, don't know what it is but everybody so nervous, hungry, and in hurry all the time.

[@marla0412]

this is so true

[@jw841]

Cities are the all consuming beast whose hunger is never satisfied. It always wants more lives and souls.

[@panacea26947]

Right… it’s so bad that over a million Chinese are making money in Korea and refuse to go back😷

[@marianne3802]

People in urban areas (no matter where) seem more stressed out than people living in rural areas

[@marla0412]

@@marianne3802 that's true but seoul really is on another level. people here are all about doing things as fast as possible. if you come to live here for a year or two you'll come to understand

[@rellg.2607]

I don't think it is just Korea, but all over the world people are suffering from depression. One thing is that Asians in general experience the pressure to always have to strive to be the "best." It is a disgrace or looked upon in my family and around my circle of friends and aquaintances if we aren't our best selves. Income, education, profession, socioeconomic status, etc... all matter. On the other hand, I myself would never have thought to suffer from depression, but I have been suffering from depression since eversince and even until now. It is the worst to the point I didn't want to live anymore. It is through prayers, that gave me hope but I am only human and there are moments when I get mentally affected. Being human is the hardest experience ever. I experienced trauma after a decision I made which forever affected me. People say don't worry about it because it is not a bad decision. I know it is not bad, but still I do feel bad. I can't get over it. In your life you will have to make tough decisions and at that point in time you need to be your bff, because trust me there will be people who thought would help you, but they won't. My decision had nothing to do with people, but until this day I get heart palpitations and depression just thinking about it because there were some better options. I realized that I myself can only save myself. I have friends, but I saw their true colors. One of my friend's advice was "your problem, your life." And she just ghosted me. I even saved her from suicide herself. I was also told by her I can't be considered depressed unless I was professionally diagnosed. How selfish of her to say that. To be honest a lot of people have gone undiagnosed with depression and incurable diseaaes even the healthiest people. You think they are okay, but they are not. They feel something but keep it to themselves for whatever reasons. I only asked for an advice and nothing else to stress her out. Also my blood uncle committed suicide, and I realized that too became a generational curse that I continue to see manifest within my immediate family, myself, and family bloodline years after his death. I am Catholic, so I do believe that what others do within the family will have some kind of effect on the family members. Even exorcists believe so. Mental illness is medical/health, genetics, life problems, pressure and high expectations, and also in my opinion spiritually related (curses, hexes, spells, diabolic posession, etc).

[@MayaTheDecemberGirl]

As a Catholic, You really shouldn't think and pay much attention to such things as curses etc. Just believe in God's Mercy, which is greater than anything. Do You know the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy (and saint sister Faustina Kowalska and her diary about the Divine Mercy)? You shouldn't also think too much about the past, past decisions, past events - it's something You cannot change anymore. The only time that belongs to us is present. And what matters is not if we succeed in everything and don't make mistakes, but what our real intentions are, if they are good. If we wouldn't make any mistakes and were ideal, we wouldn't be humans, but some kind of cyborgs. And also about suicide - of course no one should commit such acts, because everyone's life is a gift, is worthy and precious and we should cherish it. However, even if someone committed suicide, nowadays in the Catholic Church we still can pray for such person's soul. Because we don't know what the mental state of such person really was, if it didn't affect one's ability to use his free will (and it also matters, when talking about sin, what were the intentions and if there was free will really, because mental disorders can much affect this, so in such cases it's not such person's fault). And also we don't know what were the last moments of such person - as saint Jean-Marie Vianney was saying: we don't know if someone in his last moments, with his last breath didn't manage to ask God for help and forgiveness. So definitely we shouldn't think that such person's soul cannot be saved and that it is already hopeless, because God's Mercy is greater. We shouldn't despair. And such mental disorders as depression are not rare in modern societies, many people suffer because of this much, so it's important to have proper understanding of such issues and for sure not to stigmatize anyone because of such suffering of him. Especially in cases when in people's life there's no real work-life balance, much stress and pressure, these are all risk factors, that make it easier to get sick. After all, our mind is part of our body and it can also get sick, and can need proper health care. We shouldn't blame ourselves for that, that's for sure.

[@rellg.2607]

Thank you so much for your input. I really appreciate it. You made me realize a lot of things. You are absolutely right in what you said. Regarding my past and the decision I made, it was pure and coming from my heart. My intentions were only good intentions and nothing else. I should not be hard on myself.

[@MayaTheDecemberGirl]

@@rellg.2607 Don't worry too much. Just put Your trust in God and His Mercy, especially in hard moments, in everything (although it's also not always so easy to have deep faith, and everyone experiences such moments in his life). Best wishes to You.

[@rainstarr1]

It makes me sad that as a culture they feel they need to struggle through things alone. I hope for a change for Korea where suicide rates are so high. I hope they can normalize getting counseling and therapy. Also medication if needed. I hope that it won't go on their work applications. I don't know how much info is put on Korean applications but I heard they're pretty intrusive. I just wish for them to feel free to get the care they need. Mental illness also includes depression etc... Mental health deserves importance. Don't fight alone please. Wishing everyone the best.

[@德语与文化]

They cant afford it, if it woulf be acceptable, nearly everyone would do that, meaning: no way that they can supply that much, and second the economy would go downhill if "depression" becomes a reason not to go to work, there is not even time and space for nationwide therapy, this problem will stay till the death of capitalism

[@M.Sweatha]

Honest answers❤

[@zzzzzsleeping]

It's hard to gauge happiness /unhappiness just to find it through interview. Korea is a little over 4 hours to the Philippines. They need to reboot and need of sunshine. They need tropical vacation to enlighten their life after a long working hours, depressing cold weather and the same routines over and over. They need laughter, fresh fruits and spending time to see the natural beauty of the islands. Bring lots of money on your vacation 🤣🤣 share and spend some of your recreational wealth you accumulated in exchange of happiness in the islands. You will help a lot of locals that are willing to exchange your visit for a good service. When you go back to Korea, you will realize how important a simple life you learned from the Filipinos.

[@Razear]

If money becomes the top metric for which they evaluate happiness, it's a forgone conclusion that they'll never be happy. Chasing materialism is an endless pursuit; there's no monetary amount that will ever be satisfactory. There's a reason that even the rich aren't immune from depression and other mental health issues. Health should really be #1. Without a clean bill of health, money means nothing. The country's culture of vanity, emphasis on academic excellence, and constant comparison have a lot to do with it as well. Any time the priority shifts to superfluous desires, it's bound to foster more negative emotion. What needs to change is instilling a greater sense of gratitude rather than incessantly dwelling on what we don't have.

[@blue-uo6yl]

Dont worry we live longer then you all. You dont even have free healthcare lol.

[@MayaTheDecemberGirl]

For most people actually the most important sources of happiness in life are good relations with those people that are close to you, like family, partner, friends etc.

[@annakatharinasponagel4630]

this a 100%. caring about more money, more status, more materialistic stuff they are chasing something they'll never catch

[@twotec-9s]

​@@MayaTheDecemberGirl Only if the relations are good

[@MayaTheDecemberGirl]

@@twotec-9s Of course. But one should also be realistic about this, because there are no relations with others with completely no problems, ever. So it's important not to expect that a real everyday life is some kind of utopy, with being on cloud seven all the time.

[@norindareyes3251]

As a teacher, I know that academic excellency is important however let us face reality that we do have individual differences as far as educational background is concerned. I hope that multiple intelligences in every learning experience such as different skills must take into consideration.

[@xxnike0629xx]

There definitely is a big issue with mental health not being taken into consideration as much. From what I understand, South Korea has an obsession with physical appearance in particular in regards to what others might think about them. While people are of school and university age, many are expected to focus only on studies and spend hours after school on studies; often to the point where people get so stressed and depressed about not living up to such and such expectations. Then there's the expectation as an adult to have a certain job, certain salary, marry, have kids, buy a house, etc. Of course those things are good but they're not necessarily for everyone and in some instances it can be very difficult to get a certain job with a certain salary let alone finding someone compatible to marry and have kids with. When things are ideal of course many people would opt to do those things but in this day and age, the economy and job market makes a lot of these things very difficult. I understand that parents worry and they want their kids to do well in life, but if it's at the cost of someone's mental well being, no amount of accomplishments will mean much if said individual is not mentally satisfied with their life. If I have to say anything, in general people need to understand and apply the concepts of work-life balance. You should never focus too much on just work, just school, just being able to buy things, etc. You also shouldn't worry too much about what others might think about you if you don't have such & such life style, appearance, etc. At the end of the day, the thing that matters most is how satisfied are you with your life situation, your job situation, etc.

[@kimkim-nv9sl]

As a Korean, I am not that unhappy. Haha, foreigners always exaggerate a lot. Teenage students around me play games all night long.

[@sksksksksksksksksks]

Exaggeration? The Suicide rates speak for themselves... Of course not everyone is depressed but it´s also difficult to say that it´s only "foreigners who exaggerate a lot"!

[@girlbehindfood7750]

Short answer: Yes

[@twotec-9s]

Fork, now I don't need to watch the video 😂😂

[@林奥-d1j]

I am Chinese, your perception is wrong. From the data, there are a lot of 30 year old students in Korean universities, South Korea allows up to 5 years of suspension, most Koreans will go to rest, travel, do what they want to do. South Korea's youth travel rate is the highest in Asia. In China, government jobs and civil servants under the age of 27 are limited, and there are not many opportunities to travel throughout the year. The whole world is Korean. They have the strongest idol culture in the world. It is very easy to meet idols in Korea, and they often come to their schools to perform. South Korea has the largest number of young artists in Asia and the largest number of private art collectors in Asia. Only when material needs are satisfied, will spiritual pursuits be pursued. Suicide rates, statistics are not necessarily reality. International data on China have been improved, such as wages, which are much lower than the data. Korea is a country that emphasizes cafe culture the most in the world, and the number of cafes is extremely high, so enjoy life in cafes as beautiful as art galleries.

[@hyunjaekim4800]

I think there is a notable sense of anxiety among the populace. Depression is an anxiety disorder, so ditto. Competitiveness the cause? Maybe, but I see it more from a global perspective and the geopolitical landcape is perhaps the more deeper cause. Growth to prove once and for all that our system is better than the North's. Growth is important, sure, but let's try and look at what kind of growth we are aiming for.

[@atamo4323]

Treasure what u have already but do aim higher because achievement is a form of gratification. For those who are competitive at heart, also look at what u have achieved while others have not.

[@for_what_or]

비교, 서열, 상대적 약자에게만 강한 내리갈굼 문화(과연 도대체 누가 비겁한 약자인지 모르겠지만)를 다뤄야만 한국 문화의 본질적 문제점에 도달할 수 있다고 생각합니다. 한국사람들은 이러한 구조에 지나칠 정도로 익숙해져있죠

[@marilynfoster5279]

This is a very intresting Topic .living in the United States all my life,there are so many different kinds of people.The way they look, act , dress ,think,so on and so even mental health issue.But I would just like to about self,I I could not be happy if I passed someone without greeting them with a smile ,Are showing some kind of emotion.But I guess that is the I was brought up,When having a conversation with someone I was taught to use direct eye contact,and might be wrong for somebody else. But living in this great big world Im willing to believe that it takes different things to makes us happy😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@miparun]

Very interesting, I sympathised with some parts of what they talked about. I did not know that Koreans really desire to have houses

[@siouxsan5705]

The inordinate preoccupation of how you appear and “rate” in other people’s opinions is not depression, it is vanity. That seems to be a major factor underlying much of the lives of Koreans…the inordinate preoccupation of how do other people perceive me. Vanity. Stop worrying so much about how other people view your life and a lot of “depression” will be reduced.

[@Bakingmiles]

I think very few people in the eorld are really happy. Most people are just 'content' and enjoy their life. Being really HAPPY is sth difficult to achieve IMO

[@오합지졸동로마군대]

It is true that Korea is the most depressed country in the world. I am Korean. Korea, which had only recently been founded, was in ruins immediately after the Korean War, but was able to become a powerful nation again through great effort. And currently, Korea has the world's 6th largest military power and 20th largest economic power. But at the same time, Koreans are depressed and having a hard time. In the past, the Islamic terrorist organization "Al-Qaeda" secretly entered Korea to terrorize Seoul. The plan is called the "Bojinka plot". But the plan failed. At that time, Al-Qaeda members who came to Korea to terrorize Seoul had to raise funds by earning money in Korea. In the process, the Korean boss at the workplace where Al-Qaeda members were employed severely assaulted and abused Al-Qaeda members. This is because they were forced to work until dawn. And eventually, Al-Qaeda members fled from Korea. Korea is a country where Islamic terrorist organizations also flee. This is hell. Korea's economic power in terms of national GDP has grown incredibly quickly. People all over the world consider it a miracle. But all Koreans have a hard time. Even if you work hard with all your might, there is no proper reward. And although the country has become incredibly strong and incredibly wealthy, Koreans are still poor. And now, the political situation has become so bad that people are fighting and conflicting with each other. Depending on the political camp, some people criticize him for being a stooge during the Japanese colonial era, while others criticize him for being a spy for the North Korean military. It's been a while since the collapse of the Soviet Union, but the ideological war is so severe, and half of the people are regarded as communists, so they are fighting each other. The Korean Peninsula is a very cold area because it is close to Siberia. So farming is impossible. And there are no resources whatsoever. In order for Koreans to purchase food, they must develop Korean technology, earn money, and purchase food overseas. Therefore, Korea has a structure in which it must constantly develop its military, technological, and economic power in order to survive. So, since he was a young boy, he studied like a robot. And those who drop out commit suicide. That is Korean society. Korean society only likes winners and is extremely critical of losers. For those who lose in the battlefield called society, only suicide awaits them. Therefore, Korea is the country with the highest suicide rate and the highest suicide rate in the world. At the same time, it is the country with the lowest birth rate, with no births. Korea is an incredibly powerful country, but at the same time it is a huge hell.

[@user-co5ri8dp_978]

Even if it is a result of the crazy and distorted education by their government, when they come to the historical issue, they become a bunch of "bury one's head in the sand”, "only self-pity”, “no-self recollection”, and “zero objectivity and recognition about true history”.

[@andreicristian9575]

Wtf are you talking about? Korea is close to Siberia? Korea lies in the temperate zone and has 4 distinct seasons, and is actually warmer than most European countries, as it lies closer to the equator. The reason farming is hard is because of the mountain heavy landscape. Also that Al Qaeda anecdote is ridiculous. Pretty sure terrorism isn't funded by getting a job in the target country.

[@user-vgddj9utdb7jko]

한국에서 농사가 불가능하다고요??? 한국은 쌀, 밀(역사적 문제로 소량 재배), 과일, 곡물 모두 생산하고 있습니다. 쌀은 생산량 대비 소비량이 적어 문제고요.

[@Assarabiyah]

무슨 경제력이 20등이야 10~13등 선에서 왔다갔다하는데

[@dommeca123]

이 사람 한국인 아닙니다. ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ....대체 어느나라 사람일까요???

[@DanielFalk999]

Working with LIGHT and LOVE puramaryam✨de

[@detective2531]

the issue here is their addiction of career. if your not successful then you are a loser. and that addiction can kill yourself unnoticeable if you failed. you may not love yourself or if you feel no one loves you. always remember, God loves you. be happy. be unique and you dont need the validation of others to measure your worth to be love.

[@nurhidayahabdullah1548]

Should interview youngsters.

[@Arkivious]

I’m not surprised

[@seoul_9584]

행복한건지 아님 그냥 괜찮은건지 구분하라

[@celebritystraw6305]

Are you kidding me!! Korea most depressed country I laugh! Korea is filled with beauty, art and grateful people. Yes we study, work hard but we were brought up trying to be the best version of ourselves and that’s why Korea is a country all Asian people want to visit and love! K-pop k beauty k chicken so many interest around the world for things Korean things!

[@lin-hl5ky]

girl what lol

[@celebritystraw6305]

@@lin-hl5ky 🤷🏻‍♀️ ? I’m just saying korea the most depressed country?? I don’t think so

[@lin-hl5ky]

@@celebritystraw6305 yeah i agree there are definitely worse countries

[@alfianmelodic]

they said happy with unhappy face and gesture.

[@raeliana_Idc]

If your Asian face saving is most important.

[@menschin2]

I visited Korea last year. I thought they are 행복하게 😊.

[@TAL142]

Korea is a capitalist materialism society that people work for the benefits of corporation. Japan and US are slightly different version of the same concept. But the media and entertainment industries show the rich and famous. So people can dream to be rich if they are lucky.

[@Azalea2018]

I think nost of the people who answer a random street interviewer are generally happy. I've been depressed and during those dark times, I always, always avoid any kind of contact with people. So, yeah this interview has some form of bias.

[@guslevy3506]

Hardest working nation and the most depressed nation. A correlation is the logical path…

[@squeegie]

Korea used to have this 8282 mentality - Which lead to great rise of our economic miracle after the war. This attitude was instilled within the baby boomer generation of S. Korea and passed on to the X gen. However X generation struggling to meet the previous generations expectations developed: "Fake it til you Make it" mentality. Which is just a facade and though everyone looks happy on the outside, everyone is slightly depressed. Some of us don't even know we are even depressed because there's no time to even think about our own mental health.

[@dennisdavis5705]

Last got, well said.

[@Pigeon2u]

I was amazed by the woman in black hoodie and then I saw SNU Law and I understand why haha

[@pattyheaston4235]

"People my age prioritize health. Health is most important" 3 minutes earlier - "I'm happy because my sons give me spending money"

[@leonalewuisse1994]

I don't think that they will admit something like that

[@E_l_l_i_e]

There are validated tests / tools that measure positive affect, well-being, and depression. Being asked a question in front of a camera is not sufficient to deduce if a person is happy or depressed.

[@9y2bgy]

For Korea to have come this far in such a short time, there must be sacrifices. People were willing to pay them. Not sure if younger generation who grew up in more affluent environment would continue to make the same sacrifices as previous generations.

[@andreassusanto8861]

Can u asking korean on the streets their opinion about lose in AFC by Indonesia yesterday?

[@AliAli-w8p3u]

I don't nkow really much about this statistic but I guess my country lebanon is absolutely one of the list

[@seoul_9584]

They don't know if they are really happy. They are just fine, not happy.

[@far-middle]

When going through tough financial times consider moving to another country. It worked for koreans in the 1980's

[@sanyuelpuganda3581]

But I believe that making owning a house to leave the first priority is a general desire of all humanity... not only Koreans

[@mohitmittal4002]

This country is so depressed that they have banned a song or video of north korea showing happiness, what a level of depression. People are committing suicides which is highest in this country.

[@futurelover2006-s4s]

I think happyness depends on people's mental health.... not money, luxury etc....people can be happy with small to smaller things.... I'm an Indian... people outside india... says India is undeveloped, poor they are not happy...bc they are not rich.. can't afford luxurious life.....but believe me.... most of Indians are really happy in India.... some people are exceptional,they never satisfied with anything....but most of us really happy with what you have......😊 So stay happy and healthy.... always ❤🇮🇳

[@prativabiswas1559]

True

[@anadd6195]

Omg the boy with his girfriend: she is SO cute!!!!!! Her face is so pretty, like an apricot! So cute!!!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ I can't believe how pretty and cute she is! ❤

[@Heartland29]

Koreans works for money while Americans, the money works for them. That’s the big difference between these two countries. As an American the money is working for me, my husband and I retired at very young age and enjoy living a life of properties.

[@icysamurai1485]

People who would do a street interview might be happier than the average person who might have too much social anxiety to do so Extroverted people tend to be more happy, and extroverted people would be more likely to talk to a stranger and be recorded