SEOUL, South Korea – A new study has revealed a widening health gap between the rich and poor in South Korea, with higher-income individuals enjoying nearly nine more years of healthy life compared to their lower-income counterparts. The findings underscore the growing concern over health inequality in the country.

According to a study published in the Korean Journal of Medicine, the healthy lifespan of South Koreans has increased over the past decade. However, the disparity between the highest and lowest income groups has become more pronounced. Individuals in the top 20% income bracket can expect to live an average of 74.88 years in good health, while those in the bottom 20% can expect only 66.22 years.

Experts attribute this disparity to a combination of factors, including limited access to quality healthcare, unhealthy lifestyles among lower-income groups, and delayed detection of diseases. Additionally, regional disparities have grown, with urban areas generally having higher health lifespans.