A recent study highlights a growing issue of South Korea teen drug addiction, with over 75% of users starting in their teens or 20s, largely due to peer influence. This trend calls for urgent measures to address South Korea youth drug dependency and its long-term consequences.

Peer Influence Sparks Early Drug Use

Conducted by the Catholic University of Korea and commissioned by the National Center for Mental Health, the study interviewed 29 individuals from addiction treatment centres, correctional facilities, and medical institutions between February and March 2025. It explored the causes, demographics, and psychological impacts of South Korea teen drug addiction. The findings revealed that 58% of participants first used illegal substances in their 20s, while 17.2% began in their teens, meaning over 75% encountered drugs before age 30.

Peer pressure was the primary driver, with 75.9% citing encouragement from friends as the reason for their first use. Other factors included curiosity and managing stress or emotions. Notably, 70% obtained drugs through acquaintances, with only 10.3% using online sources, underscoring the role of social circles in South Korea youth drug dependency.

Cycle of Repeated Use

Peer influence also fuels ongoing use, with 57.9% of respondents attributing their second use to friends’ encouragement. Over two-thirds continued to source drugs through acquaintances, perpetuating South Korea teen drug addiction. Alarmingly, 70% took a second dose within a month of their first, indicating a rapid progression to habitual use.

Despite this, 31% of users did not consider themselves addicts, often believing they could control their usage or that it was temporary. This perception delays treatment, with some taking over a year to seek help for South Korea youth drug dependency, increasing the risk of chronic addiction.

Mental Health and Societal Impact

The psychological toll is significant, with 44.8% of participants reporting depression—seven times higher than the general population’s 6.7%. Anxiety affected 31.1% of users, four times the national average. Those facing South Korea teen drug addiction also experienced twice the impairment in daily functioning compared to the general population, highlighting broader societal challenges.

Addressing the Issue

The study emphasises the importance of addressing youth drug dependency in South Korea by focusing on early education and sustained support. Notably, the rapid progression from initial experimentation to repeated use, along with delays in seeking treatment, significantly increases the risks involved. Therefore, fostering environments that actively discourage early drug experimentation while simultaneously promoting timely intervention can play a crucial role in reducing teen addiction rates across the country.

Source: Korea Herald