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Sleepless in Seoul

Korea is one of the most tired nations on earth, people work longer and sleep fewer hours than almost anywhere else. As a result combating sleeplessness has become big business.

Korea is one of the most stressed and tired nations on earth, a place where people work and study longer hours than anywhere else. And statistics show they are finding it increasingly difficult to switch off and relax; they sleep fewer hours and have higher rates of depression and suicide than almost anywhere else.
And as a result sleeplessness and stress has become big business in Korea; from sleep clinics where doctors assess people overnight, to ‘sleep cafes’ offering naps in the middle of the working day, to relaxation drinks. Even Buddhism is moving in on the action with temple retreats and monk-led apps to help stressed out Koreans to relax. There is a lot of money to be made but some Koreans have become worried that in trying to sell religion to the next generation, some faith leaders might be losing touch with Buddhist principles themselves. For Assignment Se-Woong Koo reports from Seoul on a nation that’s wired on staying awake. Producer, Chloe Hadjimatheou.

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27 minutes

Last on

Thu 15 Sep 2022 19:06GMT

Broadcasts

  • Thu 2 Dec 2021 02:32GMT
  • Thu 2 Dec 2021 09:06GMT
  • Thu 2 Dec 2021 13:32GMT
  • Thu 2 Dec 2021 20:06GMT
  • Thu 2 Dec 2021 21:06GMT
  • Thu 15 Sep 2022 01:32GMT
  • Thu 15 Sep 2022 08:06GMT
  • Thu 15 Sep 2022 12:32GMT
  • Thu 15 Sep 2022 19:06GMT

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