South Korean men's average weight up 4kg in 11 years, obesity risk rises

The average weight of 19-year-old South Korean men has risen by about 4 kilograms over the past 11 years, with obesity rates now surpassing 30%. This trend indicates a growing risk for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

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The average weight of 19-year-old men increased from 69.44kg to 73.37kg.

The Military Manpower Administration revealed these findings on January 31, based on data from 2.95 million physical examinations conducted for conscription between 1996 and 2006. The statistics, now registered as national data for the first time, cover 24 health indicators including Body Mass Index (BMI), blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and liver function.

Analysis showed that while the proportion of obese individuals (BMI over 25) increased from 23% to 21% over the 11-year period, the percentage of those with normal weight decreased from 49% to 41%. The average weight climbed from 69.44 kg to 73.37 kg. The administration noted that the obese group exhibited higher levels of systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to the underweight group, highlighting an increasing trend in risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

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The obese group showed higher levels of systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to the underweight group, indicating an increasing trend in risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

The Military Manpower Administration stated its intention to continue releasing annual health trend data for young Korean men through national statistical portals. This information will serve as a foundational resource for national youth health policies.

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We will continue to disclose the health changes of Korean young men annually through the National Statistical Portal (KOSIS) and Public Data Portal, utilizing it as basic data for national youth health policy.