Sleep disorders rising in South Korea, sharpest spike among children under 10

South Korea is grappling with a significant rise in sleep disorders, with patient numbers climbing more than 20% over the past four years. Data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service shows a jump from 1.09 million patients in 2021 to 1.35 million in 2025.

While individuals in their 50s, 60s, and 70s represent the largest patient groups, the most alarming trend is the surge among the young. The number of children under 10 diagnosed with sleep disorders increased by a striking 67.5% in the same period, while teenage patients rose by 32.6%.

South Koreans are among the world's most sleep-deprived populations, averaging just under 7 hours of sleep per night, significantly below the OECD average. Experts attribute this widespread issue to mounting academic pressure and excessive screen time, particularly from short-form videos and homework.

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Many children and teenagers are staying up late because they can’t put down their phones after watching short-form videos or because they are busy with homework. Sleep problems that start at a young age can increase the risk of depression and cause behavioral problems later in life.

"Sleep problems that start at a young age can increase the risk of depression and cause behavioral problems later in life," warned Kim Ji-hyun, a neurology professor at Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital. The proliferation of around-the-clock services and a substantial night-shift workforce also contribute to disrupted sleep patterns.

The Korean Society of Sleep Medicine emphasizes the broader health implications, stating that insufficient sleep exacerbates mental health issues and increases the risk of serious illnesses like dementia and cardiovascular disease. They call for policy efforts to improve access to sleep evaluations and treatments.

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Insufficient sleep not only worsens depression and anxiety but also increases the likelihood of developing serious illnesses such as dementia and cardiovascular disease. Policy efforts should focus on expanding access to sleep evaluation and treatment.