Life Satisfaction and Perception of Social Cohesion Before and After COVID-19

Abstract

In this article, we aim to examine how COVID-19 has affected the perception of social cohesion among individuals and families and explore policy options for strengthening social cohesion. Our analysis found that while Koreans report higher levels of subjective happiness and life satisfaction now compared to 2020, when COVID-19 was at its height, their psychological well-being has deteriorated, as evidenced by their reporting lower levels of social cohesion, trust, and social capital. Furthermore, how Koreans perceive their own lives and society has been increasingly determined depending on the social class with which they are identified, and this trend has become more entrenched. In this light, there is a need to establish policy directions for rebuilding social trust and expanding the government’s role and responsibility in supporting vulnerable members of society. Additionally, effective policies are required to reduce and prevent socioeconomic inequalities and to provide support for individuals to recover from the losses they have suffered due to COVID-19.