{
  "id": 15562083,
  "title": "Why are people in their 20s vulnerable to drug abuse?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/why-are-people-in-their-20s-vulnerable-to-drug-abuse",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-19T05:12:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Korea Times",
    "slug": "the-korea-times-koreatimes",
    "url": "https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/opinion/20261019/why-are-people-in-their-20s-vulnerable-to-drug-abuse"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Korea, once considered a relatively drug-free nation, has seen a significant shift in illicit drug use patterns. According to 2024 data, individuals aged 20 to 29 now make up the largest share of drug-related offenders at 33 percent. This change is largely due to the accessibility of illicit substances through online platforms, as well as the rise in usage of \"club drugs\" like ketamine and ecstasy, and the misuse of prescription drugs among this age group.\n\nThe vulnerability of young adults in their 20s to drug abuse can be attributed to several factors. This age group is at the intersection of continued neurodevelopment, expanding independence, and intense social and psychological pressures. For many, this period represents a time of identity exploration as they navigate new roles and relationships. Understanding the reasons behind this trend is crucial for Korea as it seeks to build a healthier and safer environment for its younger generations.",
  "summary": "Until the mid-2010s, Korea was known as a relatively “drug-free” nation. Illicit drug use was viewed as a peripheral issue, confined to criminal subcultures or high-profile figures in the entertainment industry. Drug-related offenders were also concentrated among the 40s age group. That pattern, however, has significantly shifted. Today, young adults aged 20 to 29 account for the largest share of…",
  "key_points": [
    "33% of drug-related offenders in Korea are aged 20-29.",
    "Accessibility of illicit substances via online platforms fuels abuse.",
    "Club drugs and prescription misuse contribute to vulnerability."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The rising prevalence of drug offenses among young Koreans signals a shift toward digital accessibility and substance misuse that targets a demographic navigating critical neurodevelopmental and social transitions.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Korea Times",
        "title": "Why are people in their 20s vulnerable to drug abuse?",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/why-are-people-in-their-20s-vulnerable-to-drug-abuse-15565332",
        "published": "2026-10-19T05:42:03.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}