Leisure Activities and Digital Technology Use Among Older Koreans

Abstract

This study explores leisure activities and the use of digital technology among older adults, drawing on data from the 2023 Survey of Older Koreans. On average, older Koreans participated in 1.1 social activities. About 81.3% of older adults engaged in leisure and cultural activities, most of which were passive activities like resting. Gatherings and religious events were the most common social activities, but participation rates declined with age. Older adults utilized various public facilities for leisure and cultural activities, with distinct preferences evident among different age groups. Older adults’ ability to use digital technologies varied significantly across age groups. However, while many could send and receive messages, most found themselves unable to perform everyday tasks involving e-financial transactions or e-commerce. This may explain why most older adults reported challenges in adapting to our society’s increasing digitization. Older adults significantly vary in their leisure activities and digital competence, yet they face common challenges related to aging. Policymaking must address both disparities among older adults and their commonly shared vulnerabilities.