Teenage suicide prevention efforts must improve, say mental health experts. In light of recent incidents, many professionals urge immediate changes. On June 21, three high school students in Busan died after jumping from an apartment rooftop. Their final notes revealed intense academic pressure and emotional stress.
In response, Gangnam-gu Office in Seoul took action. Officials responded to reports of teenagers visiting rooftops near Gangnam Station. Rumors had circulated, falsely claiming certain buildings as “suicide landmarks.” These rumors described death in these locations as a gateway to heaven.
To explain further, a Gangnam-gu official described the situation. “Some students visit rooftops purely out of curiosity,” they said. “They want to feel what it’s like to stand at the edge.”
Moreover, managers of these buildings noticed a troubling trend. They saw teenagers entering rooftop areas every month. Since then, a 2023 incident where a teen livestreamed her suicide in Gangnam has increased anxiety among building managers. Many fear that their buildings have become known as hotspots.
At the same time, mental health professionals warn of changing perceptions. Today’s teens may see suicide not as despair, but as a solution. Professor Hong Hyun-joo from Hallym University expressed concern. “They treat suicide like an escape, not a tragedy,” she said.
Meanwhile, suicide rates among teenagers are rising. According to Statistics Korea, 7.9 teens per 100,000 died by suicide in 2023. That number rose from 5.5 in 2011, even as other age groups saw declining rates.
Because of this, experts now stress teenage suicide prevention. Psychiatrist Baek Jong-woo from Kyung Hee University Hospital said schools must act. “Teens need support systems that recognize emotional distress,” he said. “Schools should offer counseling and training to manage academic pressure.”
In addition, Baek emphasized community awareness. Families, educators, and peers must recognize early warning signs. Stronger teenage suicide prevention efforts in schools and communities could save lives.Ultimately, experts agree on one thing: teenage suicide prevention starts with awareness. As more young people face pressure, Korea must create safe spaces where they feel seen, heard, and supported.
