Less than 40 pct of S. Koreans say unification with N. Korea necessary: poll

A recent poll conducted by Seoul National University's Institute for Peace and Unification Studies revealed that less than 40 percent of South Koreans believe unification with North Korea is necessary. The percentage has dropped from 41.1 percent last year, indicating a declining sentiment towards reunification. In contrast, 32.2 percent of respondents now view unification as not necessary, up from 30.4 percent in the previous year.

This represents a significant increase from 15.1 percent in 2007, when the institute first conducted the survey.

The age group most opposed to unification comprises those in their 20s and 30s, with 25.2 percent and 27 percent respectively stating that it is necessary. Conversely, a substantial 44.8 percent and 47 percent in the same age groups believe unification is not necessary. The poll also found that 39.1 percent of respondents believe unification is impossible, marking the highest figure since 2007. Interestingly, a record 31.5 percent of respondents prefer the current status quo of the Koreas being divided.

Distrust towards North Korea has also increased, with 78.3 percent of respondents claiming that dialogue and compromise with the North Korean regime is impossible.