SEOUL

In the heart of South Korea’s vibrant capital, a dedicated team monitors live feeds from CCTV cameras stationed on nearly every bridge, a grim reflection of the country’s urgent mental health crisis. Among these, Mapo Bridge stands out, infamously known as the “Bridge of Death,” due to the shocking number of suicide attempts that occur there. Recent enhancements like high railings and mental health interventions highlight the city's efforts to prevent such tragic incidents.

South Korea's suicide rate is the highest among developed nations, with daily statistics showing that over 40 lives are lost to self-harm. Disturbingly, it ranks as the leading cause of death among young people aged 10 to 30. A survey from the National Center for Mental Health revealed that a staggering 70% of South Koreans faced mental health challenges last year, but the societal stigma surrounding mental health remains potent.

Efforts to combat this crisis include an ambitious plan by Kim Jun-young, the director of Seoul's Water Rescue Team, who hopes to eliminate suicide attempts on Mapo Bridge by 2030. Last year alone, his team successfully intervened with approximately 1,000 individuals in distress. Innovative solutions, such as the installation of a “roller system” on the bridge, aim to deter potential jumpers. Kim states, “Once fully implemented, our goal is to eradicate any fatalities from this bridge.”

The situation reflects a broader trend of social withdrawal among South Korea’s youth. Government statistics indicate that about 5% of the country's 11 million young adults have retreated into extreme isolation. This phenomenon, known as Hikikomori, sees individuals confining themselves to their homes with little to no external interaction. Kang Hee-jin, who once fell into this pattern due to severe panic and depression, found solace and healing through “green therapy,” connecting with nature as a pathway to mental recovery.

Kang’s journey is emblematic of the struggles faced by many young South Koreans. “When I quit my last job, everything became too overwhelming. I couldn’t function,” she shared. Now a forest interpreter, she empowers others by fostering a connection between the community and the restorative powers of nature. However, even as she works with young adults to support their healing journeys, the stigma surrounding mental health is pervasive.

One participant in her program, a 21-year-old who chose to remain anonymous, expressed feeling self-conscious in social situations, even when not judged by others. “I know I need to push myself to engage with the world, but it’s hard,” she admitted. Despite beginning to attend green therapy, her friends remain oblivious to her struggles, illustrating the silence that often envelops mental health challenges in South Korea.

This reluctance to seek help stems from a cultural belief that equates mental illness with weakness. Kang reflected on her own fears of stigma, stating, “Even when I was in crisis, going to the hospital felt daunting. I dreaded the thought of what others would say.”

While initiatives aim to curb the escalating suicide rates, experts stress the importance of addressing societal perceptions. Mental health should not be viewed as a weakness; seeking help is a courageous step towards healing.

As South Korea navigates this critical juncture, raising awareness and fostering open discussions about mental health could pave the way for a more supportive environment, ultimately saving lives and promoting well-being. The message is clear: reaching out for help is not just a sign of strength, but a vital part of the journey to recovery.