New data reveals alarming mental health trends among elementary school children, with experts urging early intervention and greater parental awareness. (Image created by ChatGPT)
SEOUL, May 5 (Korea Bizwire) — The number of children in South Korea seeking outpatient psychiatric treatment has more than doubled over the past four years, with sharp increases observed particularly among elementary school-aged children, according to newly released government data.
Figures from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, submitted to Rep. Jin Sun-mi of the National Assembly’s Education Committee, show that 270,625 children under the age of 18 received treatment for psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety from January to November 2024. That marks a dramatic rise from 133,235 recorded in 2020—an increase of over 100%.
Annual figures show a steady climb: 172,441 in 2021, 212,451 in 2022, and 244,884 in 2023. On average, child psychiatric outpatient visits have grown by 19.4% each year since 2020.
The most pronounced growth has occurred in the 7–12 age group. Among boys, patient numbers surged from 33,800 in 2020 to 76,159 in 2024—an increase of 2.3 times. For girls in the same bracket, the figure jumped 2.4 times, from 12,260 to 29,165.
Younger children aged 0–6 also saw increases: boys from 12,707 to 19,505, and girls from 5,231 to 7,763—both representing a 1.5-fold rise. In the 13–18 age range, boys increased from 35,193 to 66,459, and girls from 34,044 to 71,574—nearly doubling.
South Korean children forced to endure excessive competition from an early age (Yonhap)
The most frequently diagnosed conditions included depressive episodes, hyperactivity disorders, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.
Experts point to increased exposure to academic pressure and social stressors as likely drivers behind the surge. Pediatric depression, once considered rare, is now being recognized more frequently, though symptoms often present differently from adults.
“Children with depression may not appear sad, but instead become irritable, angry, or hypersensitive over minor issues,” said one clinical psychiatrist. “These behavioral changes are often mistaken for typical adolescent rebellion.”
Medical professionals advise parents not to dismiss signs such as diminished concentration, chronic fatigue, or difficulty making decisions, and to consult a specialist if symptoms persist.
The surge has raised alarm over the growing mental health burden on South Korea’s youth, prompting renewed calls for expanded support in schools and greater awareness among parents.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
