Living Alone Becomes the New Normal in South Korea
Living alone is no longer unusual in South Korea. In 2024, single-person households reached 8.05 million, accounting for 36.1% of all households nationwide. Newly released government data shows they are now the country’s largest household type, marking a major social shift. Two main trends are driving this change. First, people are marrying later than in the past. The average age for first-time marriage is now 33.9 for men and 31.6 for women. Many adults spend more years studying, working, or building their careers. Second, longer life expectancy has raised the number of older adults living alone. South Korea’s average lifespan has risen to more than 83 years, meaning more people outlive their spouses. Age data highlights a notable shift. People age 70 and older now make up the largest share of single-person households. This reflects South Korea’s entry into a super-aged society, where independence lasts longer, but risks of loneliness and isolation also grow. This trend matters to teenagers more than they might expect, as living alone has become a common stage of life, especially during college years or early careers. While it encourages independence, self-management, and financial responsibility, it also requires emotional strength and strong community connections. At the same time, the rise in elderly people living alone is increasing demand for social welfare and health services. More support systems are needed to help seniors stay safe, healthy, and connected. South Korea’s growing number of single-person households reflects the shift in people’s priorities and lifestyles. Understanding this pattern may influence young people’s future decisions in housing, relationships, and careers.
Blair For The Junior Times junior/1768462299/1613367801
1. Who makes up the largest share of single households now?
2. What percentage of Korean households were single-person in 2024?
3. Why is life expectancy driving the rise of single households?
4. How does this trend affect future housing and careers?
1. Would you like to live alone as an adult?
2. What are the benefits of living by yourself?
3. Do you think living alone makes people feel lonely?
4. How can we help older people who live alone?
Living alone is no longer unusual in South Korea. In 2024, single-person households reached 8.05 million, accounting for 36.1% of all households nationwide. Newly released government data shows they are now the country’s largest household type, marking a major social shift. Two main trends are driving this change. First, people are marrying later than in the past. The average age for first-time marriage is now 33.9 for men and 31.6 for women. Many adults spend more years studying, working, or building their careers. Second, longer life expectancy has raised the number of older adults living alone. South Korea’s average lifespan has risen to more than 83 years, meaning more people outlive their spouses. Age data highlights a notable shift. People age 70 and older now make up the largest share of single-person households. This reflects South Korea’s entry into a super-aged society, where independence lasts longer, but risks of loneliness and isolation also grow. This trend matters to teenagers more than they might expect, as living alone has become a common stage of life, especially during college years or early careers. While it encourages independence, self-management, and financial responsibility, it also requires emotional strength and strong community connections. At the same time, the rise in elderly people living alone is increasing demand for social welfare and health services. More support systems are needed to help seniors stay safe, healthy, and connected. South Korea’s growing number of single-person households reflects the shift in people’s priorities and lifestyles. Understanding this pattern may influence young people’s future decisions in housing, relationships, and careers.
