1 in 10 Korean adults used obesity drugs in 2025: report

According to a recent report from KB Financial Group, one in ten adult Koreans utilized obesity drugs in 2025, as revealed by a survey conducted in July and August. The survey encompassed 2,000 individuals aged between 25 and 69 years. Known as GLP-1 obesity drugs, these medications work by mimicking hormones that control appetite and blood sugar levels, facilitating weight loss.

The usage rate varied significantly across generations. Generation Z, born after 1995, exhibited the highest prevalence of obesity drug use at 16.5 percent. Millennials followed with a usage rate of 14.2 percent, while Generation X had a rate of 7.7 percent, and baby boomers experienced the lowest usage rate at 2.9 percent. Men were more likely to use these drugs compared to women, with a 11.6 percent and 9 percent usage rate respectively.

However, women demonstrated greater awareness of obesity drugs, with 83.1 percent of women being aware compared to 73 percent of men.

When asked about their future intentions, 33.9 percent of respondents expressed their willingness to use obesity drugs if given the opportunity. This percentage was notably higher among Gen Z individuals at 39.7 percent. Many Gen Z respondents cited 'appearance and body image concerns' as the primary motivator for potential future use of such drugs.