More older Koreans cover own living costs as support from children declines
Kim, 70, who lives in Seoul’s Gwanak District, works as an attendant on a kindergarten bus, helping children board and get off safely. The pay is modest, but it helps cover everyday expenses and gives her some spending money. “My son occasionally gives me money, but not regularly,” Kim said. “I don’t want to burden my son and his wife by asking them to cover my living expenses every month. As…
In recent years, an increasing number of older Koreans are independently covering their living expenses, as support from their children has declined significantly. According to figures released by the Ministry of Data and Statistics, 74.7 percent of individuals aged 65 and above covered their living costs themselves or through their spouses in 2024.
This marked a 16.2 percentage point increase over the past decade. Conversely, the proportion of older people relying on financial assistance from their children or relatives dropped to 13.1 percent, a 15.5 percentage point decrease over the same time frame.
Kim, a 70-year-old resident of Seoul’s Gwanak District, exemplifies this shift. As an attendant on a kindergarten bus, Kim earns a modest salary that helps her manage daily expenses and provides some discretionary spending money. While her son occasionally contributes to her living costs, Kim prefers not to burden him and his wife. "I don’t want to ask them to cover my expenses every month," Kim explained. "As long as I stay healthy, I want to keep working, even if my income is small."
The data highlights a notable trend: older Koreans are increasingly seeking to maintain their independence by supporting themselves financially, rather than relying on help from their children. This change reflects a growing desire among seniors to remain self-sufficient and continue working if possible.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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