South Korea

Study populations

South Korea, in 2016, had an estimated population of 50.8m with 13.8% under the age of 15 and 13.6% over the age of 65. By 2050, South Korea will have aged considerably with older people representing some 35% of the total population, or 17.6m. Of note, only 11% of the population will be under the age of 15 years, consistent with low fertility rates.

Alongside the ageing population, diabetes prevalence is increasing – with the most recent statistics reporting 817,900 people living and an estimated 514,200 undiagnosed cases.

Report & Infographic

Cover page for South Korea Study Report. For accessible PDF version of full report click the image.

Info-graphic containing overview of findings. For an accessible PDF please click the image.

Time of presentation for screening with an ophthamologist

37.5% In time for screening, 50% When visual problems have already occurred, 12.5% Too late for effective treatment

(Opthamologists n=8)

In time for screening When visual problems have already occurred Too late for effective treatment

Percentage of adults with diabetes who have completed an eye exam

52.9% Have had an eye exam, 47.1% Never had an eye exam

(Adults with diabetes n=70)

Have had an eye exam
Never had an eye exam

Complications adults with diabetes were most concerned about

44.9% Vision loss, 15.9% Kidney disease, 13% Cardiovascular disease/stroke, 10.1% Amputation

(Adults with diabetes n=69)

Vision loss Kidney disease Cardiovascular disease/stroke Amputation

Frequency of discussions about eye complications with health care providers

22.9% Every visit, 21.4% Multiple times per year, 15.7% Once a year, 17.1% When symptoms arise, 18.6% Never

(Adults with diabetes n=70)

Every visit Multiple times per year Once a year When symptoms arise Never

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