Psychology News
Reporting, analysis, and commentary on psychology from Breeze in Busan.
20 articlesPage 2 of 2
Search within Psychology or the wider site.
How Social Comparison Drives South Korea’s Fitness Culture
In South Korea, the rhythmic pounding of running shoes on pavements has become more than just a way to stay fit—it's a cultural movement, especially among the MZ Generation, which encompasses both Millennials and Generation Z. These young adults are at the forefront of a fitness boom, where running is no longer just about physical health, but a platform for social validation, consumerism, and competitive self-expression. Luxury running shoes and high-performance gear from brands like Nike and H
20 min read
How Generation Z is Rejecting Minimalist Design
In recent years, a striking shift in design preferences has emerged among Generation Z, leading to the resurgence of maximalism and a rejection of the minimalist aesthetics that dominated the 2010s. Clean lines, white walls, and curated simplicity, once the hallmarks of modern spaces, are being replaced by eclectic, bold designs full of color, texture, and personality. But what is driving this cultural movement? And why is the younger generation gravitating toward spaces with imperfection, histo
3 min read
Urban Isolation: How South Korea's Cities Are Growing Lonely
As South Korea’s cities expand and modernize, they are reaching new heights—both literally, with towering apartment complexes, and figuratively, as economic powerhouses. Yet, beneath the surface of this rapid urbanization lies a growing issue that is too often overlooked: social isolation. Despite living in densely populated urban centers, increasing numbers of South Koreans, particularly the elderly and young adults, report feeling profoundly lonely. This paradox highlights a critical flaw in S
4 min read
The Power of Cognitive Frames: How Our Minds Shape Reality
On a sweltering summer afternoon at my father's farm, I encountered a seemingly lifeless cat lying under a large potted tree. "The cat is dead," my father stated matter-of-factly. Instantly, my mind accepted this as truth, setting off a series of perceptions and reactions based on this assumption. This experience highlights the profound impact of cognitive frames on perception and behavior—a phenomenon that extends far beyond this simple anecdote. Cognitive frames, or cognitive schemata, are me
4 min read
Embracing Complexity: Intellectual Challenges, Persistence, and Entropy in Advanced Societies
In an era defined by unprecedented advancements, societies around the globe are confronted with complex challenges that call for a nuanced understanding of multifaceted concepts. The human drive for progress, hinged on intellectual pursuits, is continually creating sophisticated societal structures that present new puzzles to solve. It is within this backdrop that four main themes emerge as particularly crucial in shaping our collective ability to navigate and thrive in these evolving landscapes
10 min read
The Impact of Loneliness, Social Disconnection, and the Rising Challenge of 'Isolated Youth'
In the modern era, loneliness and social disconnection are increasingly significant societal concerns, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated the 'isolated youth' crisis in several countries, including South Korea. With digitization shaping social norms, cities worldwide are grappling with these issues, revealing a severe 'friendship recession.' Research indicates that loneliness, akin to lacking a close friend, negatively impacts health, equivalent to smoking 15 ci
4 min read
Living in High-Rise Apartments: A Potential Threat to Mental Health
South Korea's love for high-rise apartments is growing at an astonishing pace, with the country's total area of building permits for high-rise buildings with 30 floors or more reaching 16.65 million square meters in 2022, marking the second consecutive year of expansion. A recent study by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport also revealed that eight of the top 10 skyscrapers in the country are located in Busan, a popular coastal city. However, various researches conducted globall
2 min read
"Next Sohee" Exposes Labor Exploitation and Emotional Stress in the Korean Workplace
The recently released film "Next Sohee" depicts the tragic story of Kim So-hee, a high school student who worked at a call center in South Korea and ultimately took her own life due to the psychological toll of her job. Directed by July Jung and starring Bae Doona, the movie shines a light on the prevalent issue of labor exploitation and emotional stress in the competitive Korean workplace. Plot Overview Inspired by a real-life story, "Next Sohee" revolves around Kim So-hee, a vocational high
2 min read