Death remains taboo topic in South Korean homes

Contemplating good death / Photo: Unsplash.com, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

A majority of South Koreans avoid conversations about death or end-of-life decisions with their families, according to a recent study by the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs, The Straits Times reported.

The think tank surveyed adults across the country on their perceptions of death and dying. About 54% of respondents said they had never spoken with parents, children, spouses or siblings about death, terminal illness or treatment preferences. Nearly 58% said they had never heard family members discuss those topics either.

The study explored the concept of «dying well,» which emphasizes dying peacefully and with dignity. When asked what they considered the most important aspect of a good death, 20% said being free from pain. Another 18% said sparing family members from long-term caregiving responsibilities, and about 17% said avoiding financial strain on loved ones.

Reflecting those priorities, nearly 92% of respondents said they would be willing to receive hospice care at the end of life. About 82% said they support legalizing euthanasia, the deliberate ending of life to relieve suffering.