Adult ADHD Diagnoses Surge in South Korea, Actress Hwang Bo-ra Shares Personal Experience
A growing number of adults in South Korea are being diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a condition traditionally associated with childhood. This rise in adult cases is underscored by the recent revelation from actress Hwang Bo-ra, who publicly shared her diagnosis following a challenging period after childbirth.
The National Health Insurance corporation reports a dramatic increase in individuals receiving treatment for ADHD. In 2024,260,334 people were treated for the disorder,a staggering 229% increase from the 79,244 cases recorded in 2020. Notably, the proportion of adult patients has risen significantly, climbing from 31.9% in 2020 to 47% in 2024.
Hwang Bo-ra detailed her experience on her YouTube channel,explaining the difficulties she faced returning to work just weeks after giving birth. “After giving birth to the baby,I returned to work very quickly within 2-3 weeks. I received a big offer in my life, and the fee for appearing on the show was enormous, so I decided to go ahead with it, but it was crazy to work and raise children at the same time,” she recounted. Initially seeking medical attention for tinnitus and suspecting a panic disorder after a concerning episode during a YouTube filming session with Jo hye-ryun, she ultimately received an ADHD diagnosis.
While often considered a childhood condition, ADHD frequently persists into adulthood. The underlying cause is believed to be an abnormality in the brain’s dopamine reward circuit. This disruption impacts the brain’s ability to properly process rewards, leading to difficulties with attention, focus, and impulse control. Individuals with ADHD frequently enough experience forgetfulness, struggle with planning and task completion, and are prone to losing items or forgetting commitments.
Untreated ADHD can have far-reaching consequences, impacting interpersonal relationships and potentially contributing to other mental health conditions like depression or bipolar disorder. A recent study by researchers at Anglia Ruskin University in the UK found a strong correlation between adult ADHD and compulsive hoarding behaviors.Analyzing 88 patients, the study revealed that 19% exhibited severe storage obsession, while the remaining 81% demonstrated a tendency to collect unnecessary items.
The implications of untreated ADHD extend to professional life, potentially leading to negative performance evaluations due to tardiness or difficulty concentrating. It can also make it challenging to maintain focus during conversations, further straining relationships.
Fortunately, effective treatments are available.Experts emphasize the importance of seeking professional help if ADHD is suspected. Diagnosis typically involves evaluation by a psychiatrist. Treatment options include medication to manage symptoms and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to address problematic thought patterns and behaviors. Early intervention, especially for children exhibiting symptoms like constant fidgeting or an inability to remain seated, is crucial.
The rising numbers in South Korea, coupled with public figures like Hwang Bo-ra openly discussing their experiences, are helping to destigmatize ADHD and encourage individuals to seek the support they need.
Why the surge? Who is affected? What are the treatments? And how did Hwang Bo-ra’s story unfold?
The surge in ADHD diagnoses in South Korea is driven by increased awareness, reduced stigma, and potentially improved access to diagnosis. The National Health Insurance Corporation data shows a 229%
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