Delayed Reform and Stock Market Frenzy [Park No-ja's Korea, Inside and Outside]

Over the past decade, the South Korean stock market has witnessed fierce fluctuations, earning a nickname similar to a roller coaster. The average Korean citizen now owns around 14.42 million shares, which accounts for nearly half of the country's entire economic activity population. This is significantly more than in other countries, such as the United States, where over half of all households own some form of stock, and Europe, where the figure hovers around 20%.

South Korean workers are predominantly employed in non-standard jobs, and the average age of purchasing a home is 46 years old. Consequently, young people in Korea are left with the "roller coaster of stocks" as their last hope. Even under a liberal government, this situation remains unchanged. This raises questions about the impact this has on individuals and society as a whole.

While it is true that a small percentage of investors almost never make significant profits, the overwhelming majority of investors are at risk of losing everything. The stress caused by constantly monitoring stock prices, dealing with financial losses, and incurring debt can lead to serious mental health issues such as insomnia and anxiety disorders.

The constant pressure of investing can affect one's social relationships, causing them to become more transactional and less fulfilling. The pursuit of profits can lead to a disregard for environmental and labor issues, causing a disconnect between the concerns of individual investors and broader social issues. While some investors may attempt to focus on socially responsible companies, this is the exception rather than the rule.

It is difficult for these "small investors" to show empathy towards striking workers, as they have already invested themselves in the capitalist system. The demonization of striking workers can also arise from the anxiety and fear of losing everything. This cycle of victimization can lead to those who invest in stocks becoming victims themselves.

However, it is not only the fault of the stock market that people are becoming obsessed with investing. The stress of investing can also lead to a loss of personal freedom and happiness, as individuals become consumed by the pursuit of profits. Ultimately, the failure of reform efforts to address issues such as housing, healthcare, and employment is contributing to a stock market frenzy that is hurting many people.

In a society where redistribution is lacking, investing in stocks can seem like the only opportunity for many people.