Seoul Invests £250m to Combat Loneliness with Comprehensive Initiative

The South Korean capital launches a multifaceted plan to address social isolation and prevent lonely deaths among its residents.

Seoul's 'Loneliness-Free Seoul' initiative includes a 24-hour helpline, 'Goodbye Loneliness 120', set to launch in April 2025, providing support and emergency interventions.
The city plans to open community spaces called 'Seoul Heart Convenience Stores' to offer social interaction and counseling over simple meals.
A '365 Seoul Challenge' will encourage participation in community events, rewarding engagement with perks like event tickets.
Efforts will also target elderly residents with community-based activities and monitor isolated individuals through utility usage and shopping habits.
The initiative addresses broader societal issues linked to loneliness, such as high suicide rates and demographic challenges, including South Korea's low birth rate.