Is Korea Really the 'Most Depressed' Country in the World? | Street Interview
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- Опубліковано 9 чер 2024
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DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this video do not represent that of Asian Boss or the general Korean public.
00:00 Are you happy?
03:10 What does happiness mean to Koreans?
04:41 Why is Korea so depressed?
09:48 What do you need to be financially stable in Korea?
10:46 How would Koreans face depression?
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Your videos are always excellent, thanks for the effort, time and energy you put in them.
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.)
I enjoy watching your videos.thank you! I have lived in Korea for 11 years and know you well. Are you happy in America? Absolutely not. Some of the Americans are jealous of East Asia for being rich and excellent. The reason is that they think white people are superior to Asians. That's why the American novelist created science fiction. This person was usually unhappy that Kpop, kdrama, and kfood are invading American culture. It's nitpicking and inferiority complex.
I think South Korea is incomparably better and has a higher quality of life than where I was born in terms of convenience, work, safety, medical care, and pleasure. Koreans don't seem to know the gratitude... Their eye level is too high!
And I used to work as a expatriate in South Asia and Southeast Asia in the past. Compared to there, South Korea is a heaven in every way! Asian people are always jealous and jealous of East Asia. They post stupid comments on every video related to Korea.
I enjoy watching your videos.
I have lived in Korea for 11 years and know well about South Korea. Do you think Americans are happy about America? Absolutely not.
I think South Korea is incomparably better and has a higher quality of life than where I was born in convenience, work, safety, medical care, and pleasure.
Koreans don't seem to know that thanks... Their eye level is too high!
And in the past, I worked as a expatriate in South Asia and Southeast Asia. Compared to there, South Korea is heaven in every way! Asian people are always jealous of East Asia, but they are jealous of it. They go around in every video related to Korea.😂
Japanese thoughts on the new Shogun FX miniseries would be very nice!
Happiness is subjective. In our modern world, we often believe that comparison leads to growth, but in reality, it can steal our joy.
Couldn't agree more that comparing yourself is the vilest thing you can do to yourself! Being competitive is good but not comparative.
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.
It's really a mix of moralistic and materialistic things that cause more effect.
As with competition, collaboration has always done better.
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.
@@unvaccinatedAndPureBlood Be a sigma basically.
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!
'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
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.
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.
@@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.
@@Chicken42069 Wonderful way to put it, i'm Asian and couldn't agree more
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.
You are surrounded by the same. You're not alone.
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!
Wait that's what that professional told you?! That's sounds like a quack to me...
What the hell! This is not normal at all ! you should see another one pills are not working alone
They need to lose their professional license.
very few would admit they're unhappy on cam
@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.
@@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
@@hjkloj yep, plus the people with a real reason to be unhappy are 1/1000.
@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.
@truthshouldntoffend-yv5gc As I said before, your taste and your idea of a good country isn't the same as everyone else's
I appreciate hearing these thoughtful, nuanced answers.
'nuanced.'
Life is so short ...so love yourself and be really happy with or without material things.
There is no such thing as living without material things... Only the people with money can have better opportunities rather thatn those without money.
@@user-to5pu6yb5x 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 .
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.
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.
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.
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.
It’s the same in India too.
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.
Working hours are long in Central and South America as well. I think Europe is probably special.
@@user-co5ri6dp3c 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
@@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.
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?
I have lived in Korea for 11 years.
I know it well. They are a people who work hard and enjoy life.
More than 30 million Koreans travel abroad every year. Koreans are the top and the most among foreign travelers to Japan, Vietnam, and France.
In the past, I worked as a expatriate in South and Southeast Asia. It is a real hell of a place in both work and environment. In comparison, South Korea is a paradise.
South Korea has a much higher quality of life than America, which is my hometown. Working environment, medical safety, convenience, and pleasure.
Korea is a different world from the United States.
Koreans don't seem to know the gratitude... Their eye level is too high!
But, They feel sorry for Americans. You should know that.
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.
It's great to see how other parts of the world think.
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.
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.
@@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.
@@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.
@@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.
@@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.
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.
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.
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.
Been living in Korea for 5 years now. Long and cold grey winters affect mental health definitely.
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
정말로 한국인이 우울한 이유가 날씨 때문이면 좋겠네요.....ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ
@@thomasgrabkowski8283 August in Korea.....ABSOLUTELY NOT. Been there, done that and got the sweat rags from Seoul to Geoje to prove it. 🥵🥵🥵
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 😅.
@@vega4147 Facts...you must go to Spain for sun during the winter time.🤣🤣🤣
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. 💬
Seoul's bus game is on point
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.
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.
Temporary given your circumstances, some are not as lucky. But it's a good message, given that I have permanent grief due to what temporary depression led to.
What is the reason we were born? I really want to know.
@@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…
@@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.
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.
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.
I'm so sorry dealing it's no joke it gave me a heartbreak.
This is true.
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
You are wrong. An healty human Is Happy,in peace most of the time. Happyness Is not only euphoric status my friend.
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
I don't think most people are depressed. I feel that most often have days where they're cheerful the entire day.
@@hannesRSAwhat do you mean, “most people aren’t depressed”? Could you elaborate on that?
Exactly! Starting a family, while stressful, will bring you so much joy that people try to get from temporary things.
Hmm no its because of all murders wars everywhere! People who are mean .harassed you .. not pretty the weight.....
@@toba802 for some yes. There are many people who don't see starting their own family as the ultimate route to happiness. Many.......
I love the mother, shes many of the mothers i know, sweet and considering. I hope SK people live more happily.
thanks for interview. Appreciate.
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.
Terrific interview!
In a country where looks, physical apperance, and money is the most important in life..what would you expect..Depression, constant fear, unhappiness,etc
How did you reach that conclusion?
People get greedy and can cause depression. Alot of times it's all in our head.
@@andreicristian9575there's a number of suic!de cases among Korean celebrities lately
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
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.
Japan is the most depressed Asian country i swear
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.
Most people dont want to tell strangers they are depressed.
“Ask yourself whether you are happy, and you cease to be so.” John Stuart Mill
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.
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.
this is so true
Cities are the all consuming beast whose hunger is never satisfied. It always wants more lives and souls.
Right… it’s so bad that over a million Chinese are making money in Korea and refuse to go back😷
People in urban areas (no matter where) seem more stressed out than people living in rural areas
@@abcdefg-oj5wn 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
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.
And now housing is unaffordable… not so great anymore.
@@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.
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.
@@christinathakkar1690
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.
Thank you for your service🥰
Humans are much more dynamic than limited systems offer
I think one of the main reason Korea mental health is bad, it must be because those Korean Psychiatrists and Theraphists are NOT qualify enough... Come on, they should have helped their people and they're not even moving a finger!
My heart goes out to Koreans and anyone struggling with mental health issues. I wish I were a psychologist to help them 💔
Last got, well said.
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.
Comparison is the thief of joy. - Teddy Rosevelt
not Teddy bear?
I've noticed that in the Korean language, there's a lot of speaking that just sounds 'sad'.
I was born in Japan and have worked there for 5 years, and now I work for a Korean company in Seoul. The difference is astounding.
Can you tell me in more depth.
Can you elaborate?
Aren't their work environment r like the same lmao
The cold weather is to blame….go to Southeast Asia and it’s better
@@homeland1128 Korea is more competitive but the hours should be similar. Average income and employee benefits in Korea is generally much better though.
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?
Working like a slave isn’t a very happy life.
I have lived in Korea for 11 years. I know it well. They are a people who work hard and enjoy life. More than 30 million Koreans travel abroad every year. Koreans are the top and the most among foreign travelers to Japan, Vietnam, and France.
In the past, I worked as a expatriate in South and Southeast Asia. It is a real hell of a place in both work and environment. In comparison, South Korea is a paradise. South Korea has a much higher quality of life than America, which is my hometown. Working environment, medical safety, convenience, and pleasure. Korea is a different world from the United States. They feel sorry for Americans. You should know that.😂
bruh, I have lived in 5 countries, I am at Korea right now, every country I have been to, they all work hard.
I don't have a job even if I want to. So I'm happy.🤪 Koreans are unhappy because they work five days a week.😂😂 They don't want to do hard work. That's why people in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, and Africa do hard work under them 😅
They don't want to do hard work. That's why people in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, and Africa do hard work under them
Then are they slaves of Koreans? 😂😂
They don't want to do hard work. That's why people in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, and Africa do hard work under them
Then are they slaves of Koreans?
I’m not surprised
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.
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
Should interview youngsters.
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.
Yes
Korea is all about saving face. Even if they were dying of depression, they would never admit that to you, a stranger with a camera, when they know it will be shown on the internet.
Asian Boss hides people's faces and even voice if requested.
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.
In short, no where is purfekt.
Take comfort in your friends. ; )
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.
@@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.
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 !
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.
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.
1:38 that girl reminds me Seoulhyun
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!
Should invite her to speak, though 😬
Who are you referring to? The 4th person being interviewed?
Who
What hot girl are you talking about? Where?
I love the guy’s answer: “We care too much of what people think about us.”
I've never gone to a psychiatrist before only to psychologist in my country... when I lived in Korea I went to a psychiatrist and told him about the things I was going through, he just told me "sorry, I can't help you much but I can give you some meds" and I felt so disappointed, so I wonder if that is the overall experience with a psychiatrist like you just go and then just hand you the meds and that's it?... with the psychologists I got treated before they try to help me understand the problem and find different ways to overcome it, so I thought that a psychiatrist would do the same with the addition of being able to prescribe meds if you need them... so I was left very confused and I don't know whether this is the norm or it was just an awful experience.
I think that it's actually like this, that a psychitrist mainly gives You medicines, and can also give You, as a doctor, sick leave days. Of course, he should first listen to You to give some diagnosis. But he does not conduct psychoteraphies. This is a job of a psychologist. So it is said that, for instance in case of depression, really effective can usually only be the combination of these two, so medicines given by a psychiatrist and therapy provided by appropriate, acknowledged psychologist.
That’s what a psychiatrist does though. They aren’t therapists, they just prescribe medication.
That’s what psychiatrists do in other countries (for example, the US) too. Psychiatrists are not there for talk therapies although they will have short conversations with you. I’ve seen psychiatrists in both countries and it was kind of similar. 10 minutes of talking then giving you the medication. If you want an hour long conversation with someone, you need to see a therapist.
There's difference between depression and frustration.
If your Asian face saving is most important.
Yes.
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.
People often tend to equate Japan and South Korea on topics like this, but these two countries are completely different. First of all, regarding the suicide rate, according to a WHO survey, the current suicide rate in South Korea is literally one of the highest in the world and is nearly twice as high as Japan's suicide rate. Japan's suicide rate has been decreasing year by year and is currently lower than the suicide rate in the United States. And according to a survey of mental health morbidity rates in various countries, the percentage of Japanese people who suffer from mental health problems within a year is 18%, which is much lower than in the United States, 44% and the UK 39%. When you look at social media, you only see radical or biased news, but it seems like Japan is not that depressed.
I’m Korean and I have never lived in Japan but I’m sure Japan is definitely a better and happier country to live in than Korea 😂
Finland 🇫🇮 has higher suiside rate than Japan ( I wander what is the reason )
That’s only Tokyo though
You never lived in other place
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!
행복한건지 아님 그냥 괜찮은건지 구분하라
After all I’ve heard I feel I was Korean in other life ❤
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.
not sure about data accuracy of the interviews because which subject would admit to depression or unhappiness in front of the camera
I wonder when this was filmed as snow can be seen...
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.
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...
Hardest working nation and the most depressed nation.
A correlation is the logical path…
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.
Dont worry we live longer then you all. You dont even have free healthcare lol.
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.
this a 100%. caring about more money, more status, more materialistic stuff they are chasing something they'll never catch
@@MayaTheDecemberGirl Only if the relations are good
@@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.
the accent is a little different from what I heard in dramas and shows
Well... It looks like a affluent shopping area, ie people who are on recreational break. How about asking people in industrial areas or rundown residential areas?
That's a really question I am curious about korea.
i still cant forget when their nation boom there are a lot of their citizens looking down at other south east asians and forgot to be humble.
if i'm depressed, i would be too sad to even leave my bed, let alone step outside to be interviewed.
I don't think that they will admit something like that
4:41 5:35 10:47 THIS
12:38 I really like this guy's thinking 👏👏👏
Can u asking korean on the streets their opinion about lose in AFC by Indonesia yesterday?
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.
0:31 so cute lol
So the old woman says she is very happy because her 2 sons give her a lot of money and then that her husband is in the hospital and has depression. Then she says that people in her age value health more than money, she seems to care more about the money than her husband being sick
They don't know if they are really happy. They are just fine, not happy.
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! ❤
South Korea or East Korea (Japan)?
11:33 I am just like that lady, Whenever I have been depressed my life I have just toughed it out and never told anyone!!
Like I'm only just slowly coming out of depression again! > -
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).
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.
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.
@@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.
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😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
Short answer: Yes
Fork, now I don't need to watch the video 😂😂
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.
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 ❤🇮🇳
True
When did you recorded this? Its warm in Seoul. Looks like winter..
Interesting that the interviewer ‘subtlety’ references a @IamMarkManson recent video. Clever
Wouldn't that be the UK?
If you asked that to me, I couldn't answer honestly
Most People almost never admit how they _truly_ feel, all their darkest thoughts and feelings and problems, to strangers, to the public. All of those people u walk past on the street who seem completely normal, completely content, completely fine on the outside? Chances r, they are dealing with something on the inside. Don’t always believe it when people say they’re “fine”. Yes, most people are truly fine but there are many who simply are not.
7:08 Depressed Korean in the background 😅
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.
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
If somebody asked me this on the street, I would never answer below 6...
Even if I felt like a 4 everyday.
Tell to the man who has
never traveled we invite him free accomodation free food but he has to pay his ticket
As a Korean, I am not that unhappy. Haha, foreigners always exaggerate a lot. Teenage students around me play games all night long.
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"!
progress instead of happiness