Four out of 10 South Koreans have difficulty maintaining quality sleep. (Image courtesy of Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, March 4 (Korea Bizwire) — A recent global survey has revealed that four out of 10 South Koreans have difficulty maintaining quality sleep at least three times a week, with stress identified as the leading cause of sleep deprivation.
ResMed, a global sleep solutions provider, released the findings of its fifth annual Global Sleep Health Survey on March 2. The survey included 30,026 participants across 13 countries, with 1,500 South Koreans among them.
The study found that, on average, respondents worldwide experience inadequate sleep for approximately three days per week. About 30% of global participants reported difficulty falling or staying asleep at least three times a week. In South Korea, this figure was slightly higher at 37%.
Stress was the most frequently cited reason for sleep difficulties, with 67% of South Korean respondents and 57% of global respondents selecting it as the primary factor. Anxiety ranked second (49% in South Korea, 46% globally), followed by financial pressures (22% in South Korea, 31% globally).
Despite experiencing sleep issues, many respondents admitted to taking no active measures to improve their sleep health. In South Korea, 17% of those struggling with insufficient sleep reported simply enduring the problem without seeking solutions.
Dr. Carlos Nunez, Chief Medical Officer of ResMed, emphasized the critical role of sleep in overall health, comparing it to diet and exercise. He highlighted that millions worldwide continue to suffer from poor sleep quality, underscoring the need for global action to address sleep-related health concerns.
The survey also highlighted the benefits of adequate sleep, including improved mood, better concentration, and increased productivity. Conversely, those suffering from sleep deprivation reported daytime drowsiness, irritability, and decreased focus.
Workplace performance was also affected by sleep quality. The survey found that 71% of global employees had taken sick leave at least once due to insufficient sleep. By country, India had the highest rate (94%), followed by China (78%), Singapore (73%), and the United States (70%). South Korea’s rate stood at 53%, comparatively lower than other nations.
The survey further indicated that women tend to experience lower sleep quality than men. Globally, women reported an average of 3.83 nights of quality sleep per week, compared to 4.13 nights for men. In South Korea, the figures were 3.38 nights for women and 3.82 nights for men.
Dr. Nunez warned that chronic sleep deprivation could negatively impact relationships and workplace productivity while increasing the risk of cognitive decline, mood disorders, heart failure, and strokes. He urged individuals and policymakers alike to prioritize sleep health as an essential component of overall well-being.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
