South Korea has been severely impacted by tragic news that raises questions about mental health in a highly competitive society. Choi Yoon-Hee, known as «The Priestess of Happiness», the author of more than 20 self-help books and a leading figure in the self-help world, was found dead alongside her husband in an apparent double suicide. The incident has sparked intense debate about the effectiveness of self-help in addressing the complexities of real life, especially in societies with high levels of social pressure such as South Korea. The case highlights the need to destigmatize mental disorders and emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach to mental health. emotional health.
Context behind the tragedy
The body of Choi Yoon-Hee and her husband was found in a motel room in Goyang, north of Seoul. Police investigation revealed that they had decided to end their lives by suicide. hanging, leaving letters detailing the physical and emotional pain they were going through. Choi had been suffering for two years from heart and lung disease which caused her unbearable physical pain. Her husband chose to accompany her in this decision, as an act of love and solidarity described in the letter found. This tragic event, loaded with irony due to the subject matter of her works, has put a spotlight on the harsh reality of the chronic diseases and the challenges people face on their path to finding happiness and meaning in life.
Suicide and social pressure in South Korea
South Korea has one of the highest suicide rates in the world, especially among women and young people. According to data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the country leads this rate among developed countries, with more than 36 people committing suicide every day. Suicide is the main cause of death among people aged 10 to 39.
In a society where the academic and professional success is highly valued, extreme competitiveness, long working hours and the stigma associated with mental health problems play a crucial role in this alarming rate. It is evident that the lack of an adequate support system and the challenges associated with emotional well remain critical issues in the nation.
Choi Yoon-Hee: From priestess of happiness to emblematic case
Choi dedicated her life to offering tools and strategies to overcome adversity, publishing books focused on gratitude, self-esteem and the meaning of life in the midst of difficulties. However, her suicide has unleashed a wave of criticism and ironic comments:
- "In the blacksmith's house, a wooden knife."
- "I sell advice that I don't have for myself."
- "Do as I say, not as I do."
These comments reflect a lack of empathy and understanding towards mental health. It is often forgotten that even the most skilled people to help others can face devastating internal struggles.
Factors behind the mental health crisis in Korea
Suicide in Korea is not just an individual problem, but reflects deeper social and cultural problems:
- Academic and work pressure: From an early age, students face high levels of academic stress. When entering the labor market, challenges are intensified by instability and extreme competition.
- Social isolation: Social structure and cultural expectations encourage individualism, leaving many people without an adequate emotional support network.
- Stigmatization of mental health: Seeking psychological help is seen as a sign of weakness, which prevents many from receiving the necessary treatment.
- Chronic diseases: Factors such as physical ailments, as in Choi's case, add a additional charge.
The role of idols and their impact on youth
South Korea is known for its entertainment industry, but the unrealistic standards imposed on its “idols” (K-pop stars and actors) aggravate social pressure. Cases like those of Moon Bin y Sulli, who committed suicide amid public exposure and online harassment, show how these factors affect even public figures.
Initiatives to address the crisis
The South Korean government has implemented suicide prevention plans, including a goal of reducing the suicide rate by 30% in five years. Some of the measures include:
- Mental health checks more frequent.
- Restriction of access to lethal means; for example, limiting the sale of dangerous products.
- Promotion of educational campaigns to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
However, the policies implemented so far have not been sufficient to address the problem from its cultural and structural roots.
The death of Choi Yoon-Hee and the ongoing suicide crisis in South Korea represent an urgent call to rethink the approach to mental health and collective well-being. Governments, communities and individuals must work to create more empathetic and supportive environments that prioritize emotional well-being over individual achievement. It is vital that as a society we recognize that internal struggles are universal and asking for help should not be seen as an act of weakness, but as a courageous step towards resilience.