KB Financial Group releases 2026 Korea Wellness Report

KB Financial Group has published its ‘2026 Korea Wellness Report’, analyzing the health perceptions, management behaviors, and digital healthcare usage of South Koreans. The report highlights a significant shift in exercise motivations, with 34.8% of respondents exercising for ‘emotional ventilation’ and stress relief, a 13.3 percentage point increase from two years ago.

While interest in mental health is high—with 90.7% identifying it as a key wellness area—actual practice lags behind. Only 35.7% of respondents reported managing their mental health, and only 26.3% engaged in direct ‘mind care’ activities. Common barriers to mental wellness include high stress levels and a lack of leisure time.

Regarding physical health, interest has shifted toward sleep (54.0%) and stress management (51.9%), surpassing dietary management. However, average daily sleep time has decreased from 6.5 hours in 2024 to 6.3 hours this year. On average, individuals spend 213,000 KRW per month on health management, with the majority of spending directed toward exercise and health functional foods rather than mental health counseling.

Digital healthcare adoption is rising, with 52.4% of respondents using apps or digital devices for health management. Notably, 37.1% of Gen Z respondents have utilized generative AI for emotional or psychological counseling purposes.