Teen Suicide Becoming Social Disaster

Unfortunately, teen suicide is not a surprising news these days anymore since we hear about it very often from the media. However, recent statistics released by the education ministry were shocking. The number of elementary and secondary school students who committed suicide last year soared 47 percent from 137 in 2008 to 202.
In a country where young students have to study extremely long hours without having enough time to enjoy their youths, teenagers in Korea feel a lot of pressure. Teen suicide should be considered more seriously than adults¡¯ suicide since they are losing their opportunity to know what life is really about.

There are many reasons for suicides including family problems, poor school records, relationships with others and psychiatric problems. The two biggest factors behind the tragedy are family feuds from economic hardship and coercive education system focusing on getting good grades disregarding each individual¡¯s interest.

Parents should take the leading role in stopping the increase of teen suicide. They should talk more with their children and listen to their difficulties. Also, parents should not give too much pressure about studying.

The society should stop evaluating a person only through their grades and degrees since everyone has a different talent. Recognition of humanity should also be revived among the excessively result-oriented social climate.

Above all, government needs to map out a long-term policy and implement it constantly to prevent suicide. A one-time remedy cannot cure the social disaster, as seen last year when the suicide rate soared despite the government¡¯s policy package.

Korean children are reported to be the unhappiest students among the member countries of the OECD according to a survey by research center of Yonsei University. Becoming an economically strong country is meaningless if the students can¡¯t find happiness in their lives.

1. Why are the recent statistics released by the education ministry shocking?
2. What are the reasons for the increase of teen suicide?
3. What are the parents¡¯ roles in reducing the numbers of the suicide?