Experts explained that happy experiences are normally based on the self, not on others. (image: Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, May 1 (Korea Bizwire) — Three in 10 South Korean adults believe that finding a good partner and creating a happy family can lead to greater happiness, a study revealed on Wednesday.
The Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs conducted a survey of 5,020 people between 19 and 80 years of age in May and June 2019, 31 percent of whom said that creating a happy family with a good partner leads to greater happiness.
Other answers included ‘living healthily” (26.3 percent), ‘achieving financial and reputational success” (12.7 percent), and ‘finding an ideal job” (10.4 percent).
Among those in the bottom 20 percent of income distribution, 40.8 percent thought a healthy life would lead to greater happiness.
Income earners in the lower 40 percent (26.9 percent), lower 60 percent (29.0 percent), higher 40 percent (31.9 percent), and higher 20 percent (42.7 percent) all opted for a good partner and a happy family as secrets to greater happiness.
A healthy life came in second place.
Less than 1 percent of respondents said selfless acts, such as making social contributions or volunteering for others, lead to happiness.
Experts explained that happy experiences are normally based on the self, not on others.
The average South Korean’s assessment, satisfaction, value, and happiness towards life scored less than 7 out of 10.
The score peaked among the 30s age group, gradually shifting downwards as people grew older.
Happiness levels differed by age, economic status, area of residence, and social and economic levels.
Those with a secure personality normally demonstrated higher satisfaction towards life with lower tendencies for depression.
While they were currently less happy than they wanted to be, they believed that greater happiness would come within five years.
D. M. Park (dmpark@koreabizwire.com)
