South Korea aims to save seniors lost in digital age

South Korea is addressing the steep digital divide that has developed among its senior citizens, a gap that has widened dramatically in the hyper-connected and rapidly aging country. During a government-organized digital literacy training session in Suwon, a 79-year-old resident named Hwang Sun-hee managed to successfully place an online order for the first time.

The elderly population in South Korea, numbering 52 million, is grappling with a significant digital literacy gap, with nearly 90% of taxi drivers still relying on traditional methods while over 80% of those over 60 continue to hail taxis manually. This "grey digital divide" has exposed seniors to heightened vulnerability, exposing them to online scams and limiting access to essential services.

South Korea's digital divide is considered one of the most pronounced in the world. Experts attribute this to the country's rapid industrialization over just a few decades compared to centuries in Western nations. With a massive aging population, South Korea is categorized as a "super-aged society," with over 20% of its residents aged 65 and above.

The government has responded by implementing nationwide digital literacy programs for the elderly, beginning in 2020 as services shifted online due to Covid-19. These initiatives include mobile training vans and mock kiosks visiting community centers and regional events. While the training has boosted Hwang's confidence, she remains envious of the younger generation's ease in navigating technology.