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South Korea's Alarming Senior Suicide Rate Hits 18,044

8/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A heartbreaking South Korean study found that nearly 10 seniors aged 65 and older took their own lives each day from 2019 to 2023, resulting in a staggering 18,044 deaths. With a suicide rate of 40.6 per 100,000 in 2023, the crisis is fueled by loneliness, financial strain, and chronic illness. Urgent training for healthcare professionals is essential to help identify and support at-risk seniors.

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Story summary

A heartbreaking South Korean study found that nearly 10 seniors aged 65 and older took their own lives each day from 2019 to 2023, resulting in a staggering 18,044 deaths. With a suicide rate of 40.6 per 100,000 in 2023, the crisis is fueled by loneliness, financial strain, and chronic illness. Urgent training for healthcare professionals is essential to help identify and support at-risk seniors.