S Korea aims to save older people lost in digital age
South Korea is addressing a stark digital divide affecting its older population. Government-organized training sessions are helping seniors use smartphones, apps, and kiosks. This initiative responds to the fact that 60 percent of South Koreans over 60 struggle with digital services, compared to 6 percent of those under 40. Last year, 650,000 people over 60 attended more than 65,000 training sessions. The country aims to bridge this gap in its hyper-connected, fast-aging society.
South Korea's rapid industrialization created a unique digital divide among its older citizens. Many grew up without basic infrastructure like electricity or landlines. This compressed development means a 79-year-old like Hwang Sun-hee now struggles with everyday tasks requiring apps or kiosks. The UN classifies South Korea as a "super-aged society," with over 20 percent of its population over 65, amplifying the problem. This is not just a social issue; it creates real friction in daily life, from hailing taxis to accessing medical services.
The government's response, public tech training for the "digitally vulnerable," began in 2020. This program, which saw 650,000 participants last year, is essential for maintaining social cohesion. Without it, the older cohort risks further isolation and vulnerability to high-tech crimes. This also affects businesses, as a significant portion of the population struggles to engage with digital-first services. South Korea's approach offers a model for other rapidly aging Asian economies facing similar challenges, such as Japan and Singapore.
The real test for South Korea's program is sustained, practical impact beyond initial training. While 650,000 participants is a strong start, the question is how many truly integrate these skills. The reliance on children for daily digital tasks, as Hwang noted, shows the depth of the challenge. Watch for metrics beyond attendance, such as actual adoption rates of digital services among seniors, to gauge true success. This is a long-term commitment, not a quick fix.
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