KB Financial: South Koreans average 6.3 hours sleep, fatigue
Nearly half of surveyed South Koreans report persistent exhaustion, while average nightly sleep declined to 6.3 hours from 6.5 hours in 2024, according to a new report.
Declining Sleep and Rising Fatigue
South Koreans are experiencing increased fatigue and reduced sleep duration, according to KB Financial Group's 2026 Korea Wellness Report. The report, released on Sunday, found that 49.9 percent of respondents had persistent exhaustion in the month prior to the survey. Average nightly sleep for individuals surveyed fell to 6.3 hours.
This marks a decrease from 6.5 hours recorded in 2024. Furthermore, the proportion of individuals achieving at least seven hours of sleep dropped by 8.8 percentage points, settling at 41.6 percent.
Prioritising Sleep and Stress Management
Despite a general consensus that sufficient sleep is crucial for mental well-being, many individuals struggle to achieve adequate rest. Among those dissatisfied with their sleep quality, 45.9 percent identified smartphone use immediately before bedtime as the primary cause of disruption.
The report also highlights a growing concern for health management, with sleep ranking as the top priority at 54 percent, a 5.6 percentage point increase from 2024. Stress management followed closely, rising 5.3 percentage points to 51.9 percent.
Mental Health Disconnect
While awareness of mental health's importance is high, active management remains low. A significant 90.7 percent of respondents considered psychological well-being essential, yet only 35.7 percent actively managed it. Just 26.3 percent engaged in specific activities for emotional well-being.
Exercise is emerging as a critical stress-relief tool, with 34.8 percent citing emotional relief as a motivation, up 13.3 percentage points from two years earlier. The KB Financial Group's research institute noted the need to consider health across all aspects of life, including mental well-being and social relationships.
The widespread fatigue and declining sleep hours among South Korean workers present a clear challenge for corporate productivity. Businesses may face increased costs due to reduced efficiency or potential rises in absenteeism.
Conversely, the heightened focus on sleep and stress management could drive demand for wellness products and services, creating new market opportunities for companies in the health and well-being sector. Employers may also need to consider enhanced workplace well-being programmes to attract and retain talent, and to maintain overall workforce output.
This article is journalism, not investment advice; consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Market data is indicative, may be delayed, and should be verified with your broker or exchange before use.
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