Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:19pm on 24 Oct 2024,Thursday International
South Korea is tackling a growing loneliness epidemic, with Seoul pledging $327 million to combat the issue over five years. The funds will be used to create a city "where no-one is lonely" through 24/7 loneliness counseling hotlines, online platforms, and in-person consultations. The city also plans to expand psychological services, green spaces, and meal plans for middle-aged and elderly residents. A rise in "lonely deaths" has brought attention to the problem, especially among men in their 50s and 60s. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon stated the government would “mobilize all municipal capacity” to address the crisis.