Half of Korean men in their 30s, 40s classified as obese

What happened: A government analysis based on the 2025 Community Health Survey found that more than half of South Korean men in their 30s and 40s were classified as obese. Key numbers: Obesity rates were 52.1 percent for men in their 30s and 53.1 percent for men in their 40s. Across all ages, the rate was 42.5 percent for men and 22.9 percent for women. Why it matters: The analysis found regional gaps in obesity and health behaviors, and Lim Seung-kwan of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said local governments and relevant agencies need policies tailored to local conditions.

A government analysis based on the 2025 Community Health Survey found that more than half of South Korean men in their 30s and 40s were classified as obese.

The analysis found regional gaps in obesity and health behaviors, and Lim Seung-kwan of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said local governments and relevant agencies need policies tailored to local conditions.