Poverty among older people in South Korea: a social work perspective

Abstract

As the population is growing older, elderly poverty becomes a significant issue in South Korea. This has been an unsolved puzzle because the nation has actually experienced rapid economic growth over the last few decades. Given such an irony, this study examines the issue of elderly poverty from social workers' perspectives. Through exploring this issue, the study ultimately aims to contribute to improving life quality for the struggling elderly population in Korea. Data were collected through interviews with nine social workers working with older adults in Chungju city to understand their views on elderly poverty and its impacts on older adults. All interviews were conducted in the Korean language, and then all transcripts were translated into the English language for thematic analysis using the NVivo technique. Data analysis reveals that elderly poverty is a far more complex issue than older people’s economic or financial aspects. The participating social workers were able to list various factors that contribute to elderly poverty, such as the nation’s inadequate pension systems, limited job opportunities for older individuals, and the lack of family support in the contemporary Korean society. They also commented that elderly poverty is likely to be associated with other matters such as social isolation and loneliness, health issues, and strained family relationships. Drawn from these findings, the study suggests some implications for social policy, research and practice, particularly social work for older adults experiencing elderly poverty in South Korea.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Western Sydney University
Supervisor	Hong-Jae Park (Supervisor)