Big lessons the US can learn from a country with one of the fastest-growing lifespans

Big Lessons the US Can Learn from a Country with One of the Fastest-Growing Lifespans

Big lessons the US can learn – As part of her CNN Original Series, journalist Kara Swisher delves into the world of life extension, examining how individuals and industries are striving to prolong human existence. The fifth episode of the series highlights how South Korea has become a global leader in extending lifespans, offering insights that could reshape American health practices. For those aspiring to a long and healthy life, South Korea may offer more promising prospects than the U.S., according to recent data and firsthand observations from Swisher’s travels.

South Korea’s Rapid Progress in Life Expectancy

Since the 1980s, the U.S. has seen its life expectancy stagnate, slipping to the bottom of the developed nations’ rankings. Meanwhile, South Korea has achieved remarkable gains, with life expectancy increasing by 7.94 years between 2000 and 2021, according to the World Health Organization. This shift reflects broader changes in lifestyle, healthcare, and societal priorities, areas where the U.S. could benefit from adopting South Korean strategies.

Healthy Eating Starts in the Classroom

Kara Swisher’s visit to a South Korean school revealed a stark contrast in children’s diets. Students’ lunch trays featured lettuce wraps, radish-chive salad, kimchi, and seasonal fruit—choices that differ from what many American children typically consume. In South Korea, school nutritionists design meals to promote both health and education, ensuring balanced diets from an early age. This system helps combat poor eating habits, which are prevalent in the U.S., where nearly half of children aged 1 to 5 skip vegetables daily, and a third avoid fruits, per a 2023 CDC report.

Three out of every five households employ short-order cooks to cater to the picky eating habits of their children. Yet, South Korea’s approach to nutrition emphasizes accessibility and consistency, reducing reliance on processed foods. Swisher noted that this cultural emphasis on wholesome meals may contribute to the nation’s longevity. The long-term benefits of such habits are evident in the U.S., where nearly half of adults consume diets rated as low quality by the American Heart Association. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins—such as the MIND and Mediterranean diets—have been linked to extended lifespan and reduced cognitive decline, underscoring the importance of early nutritional habits.

Physical Activity and Social Connection Are Key

South Korean “SuperAgers,” individuals who maintain cognitive abilities typically seen in much younger people, often attribute their vitality to active lifestyles and strong social ties. Dr. Geon-Ha Kim, a neuroscientist at Ewha Womans University Medical Center, highlights that physical exercise, regular social interaction, and engaging in new challenges are critical to longevity. These elements are not just optional but deeply embedded in daily life, fostering a culture of health and resilience.

“I’m with friends laughing all day. There’s no room for sickness,” said Park Mak-rye, a 79-year-old social media star known as “Korea Grandma.”

Swisher explored these practices by speaking with Park, who shares her routines online. Her regimen includes healthy cooking, skincare routines, and consistent physical activity, all of which support her robust health. Studies show that regular exercise reduces the risk of early death by up to 40%, while social isolation increases it by 32%, according to a 2023 analysis. Engaging with arts and culture may also slow aging, as recent research suggests, reinforcing the idea that holistic lifestyle choices matter deeply.

Differences in Healthcare Priorities

One of the most significant contrasts between the U.S. and South Korea lies in their healthcare systems. Hieun Shin, a journalist for Agence France-Presse covering life in South Korea, explained that the nation prioritizes prevention over treatment. This approach is evident in the frequency of healthcare visits, where even minor ailments like a cold or back pain often prompt consultations with professionals. In the U.S., however, the system rewards treatment over prevention, with doctors compensated heavily for procedures like heart bypass surgery but less for addressing lifestyle risks.

“No one wants to pay for prevention,” said Dr. Karen Studer, chair of the department of preventive medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California.

Studer emphasized that American physicians are incentivized to focus on curative care rather than proactive health measures. This difference shapes public behavior, as South Koreans are more likely to seek regular check-ups and early interventions, while Americans often delay medical attention until symptoms worsen. Such practices may explain why South Korea’s population continues to age more gracefully than their U.S. counterparts.

Learning from South Korea’s Model

South Korea’s success in extending lifespans offers a blueprint for the U.S. to follow. By integrating preventive healthcare, promoting nutritious diets from childhood, and encouraging social engagement and physical activity, the nation has created a culture of longevity. These lessons are not just theoretical—they are actionable strategies that can be adopted today. As Swisher’s journey illustrates, the path to a longer, healthier life begins with small but consistent changes, rooted in both individual choices and systemic support.

For instance, South Korea’s free school lunch program ensures that children receive balanced nutrition, a practice that could be expanded in the U.S. to address childhood obesity and dietary deficiencies. Similarly, healthcare reforms that reward preventive care could shift public health outcomes, reducing the burden of chronic diseases. The nation’s emphasis on community and activity, as seen in the routines of “Korea Grandma,” also highlights the role of social connections in sustaining health over time.

Ultimately, the U.S. has much to learn from South Korea’s commitment to holistic wellness. While the country has lagged in some areas, its proactive approach to lifestyle and healthcare provides a compelling example. By adapting these practices, Americans may yet reclaim their position as a leader in longevity, ensuring that health and vitality are not just aspirations but achievable realities.