Editor’s Note
Big lessons the US can learn – The CNN Original Series Kara Swisher Wants to Live Forever follows journalist Kara Swisher as she explores the booming business of life extension and the people determined to defy death. Watch the fifth episode at 9 p.m. ET Saturday, and stream the premiere episode on the CNN app.
South Korea’s Lifespan Advantages
For those seeking a longer, healthier life, South Korea offers more promising outcomes than the U.S. In the 1980s, the United States held a relatively average position in terms of life expectancy among developed nations. However, since then, the global landscape has shifted significantly, with many countries improving their health metrics while the U.S. has slipped to near the bottom of the list. According to the World Health Organization, South Korea’s life expectancy has increased by 7.94 years between 2000 and 2021, a trend that highlights the nation’s commitment to longevity.
Healthy Habits Start in the Classroom
During a visit to a South Korean school, Kara Swisher observed a striking difference in students’ lunch choices. The trays featured lettuce wraps, radish-chive salad, kimchi, and seasonal fruit—foods that contrasted with the typical selections her own young children would opt for. This nutritional disparity is not accidental. School nutritionists like Yeonju Kim play a pivotal role in designing meals that are both nutritious and educational, ensuring children develop lifelong healthy habits. In contrast, many American families rely on three out of five households to serve as short-order cooks for picky eaters, often leading to less balanced diets.
Swisher noted that the structured approach to school lunches in South Korea emphasizes consistency and variety. The meals are tailored to meet specific dietary needs, fostering an environment where students are exposed to nutrient-rich options from an early age. This system reduces reliance on processed foods and encourages mindful eating, laying the groundwork for healthier adult choices.
Diet Quality and Longevity
Healthy eating habits are not confined to childhood. A 2023 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that nearly half of children aged 1 to 5 fail to consume a daily vegetable, while a third skip fruits altogether. This pattern persists into adulthood, with a 2025 study indicating that almost half of American adults maintain poor dietary quality. According to the American Heart Association’s primary diet score, these diets lack essential components like whole grains, healthy proteins, and minimally processed foods.
“Nearly half of American adults eat a poor-quality diet,” stated Dr. Karen Studer, chair of the department of preventive medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine. “Their meals often fall short of the recommendations that prioritize fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.”
Diets rich in these elements, such as the MIND and Mediterranean diets, have been linked to both extended lifespans and reduced risks of cognitive decline. The MIND diet, which stands for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, combines principles from the Mediterranean and DASH diets to specifically target brain health.
Over time, the cumulative effects of these dietary choices become evident. While healthy eating might not yield immediate results, consistent habits can significantly impact long-term well-being. Swisher highlighted that the South Korean approach to nutrition is embedded in daily routines, reinforcing the idea that small, sustained actions can lead to substantial benefits.
Lifestyle Factors for Aging Gracefully
South Korea’s success in longevity also stems from lifestyle practices that prioritize physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation. Dr. Geon-Ha Kim, a neuroscientist at Ewha Womans University Medical Center in Seoul, emphasized that these elements are critical for maintaining cognitive health in older adults, often referred to as “SuperAgers” for their remarkable vitality.
“Physical exercise, social interaction, and new, challenging activities are among the most influential factors in preserving cognitive function,” said Dr. Kim.
Swisher explored these insights through conversations with Korea Grandma, a social media star known for her vibrant lifestyle. At 79 years old, Park Mak-rye shares online routines that include healthy cooking, skincare regimens, and fitness practices. Her approach underscores the importance of community and routine in sustaining health.
Research supports these observations. A 2023 study found that regular exercise, which elevates heart and breathing rates, can reduce the risk of early death by up to 40%. Conversely, those experiencing loneliness or social isolation face a 32% higher risk of premature mortality from any cause. Additionally, engaging with arts and culture has shown potential to slow aging, as noted in a recent study published this week. Park Mak-rye echoed this sentiment, stating,
“I’m with friends laughing all day. There’s no room for sickness.”
Healthcare Systems and Prevention
Another key distinction between South Korea and the U.S. lies in their healthcare systems. Hieun Shin, a journalist for Agence France-Presse covering social and cultural aspects of life in South Korea, pointed out that the focus on prevention rather than treatment is a major factor in South Korea’s health outcomes. In the U.S., physicians are often reimbursed heavily for procedures like heart bypass surgery, yet receive limited payment for addressing lifestyle factors that could prevent such conditions.
“No one wants to pay for prevention,” said Dr. Studer. “Physicians are incentivized to treat diseases rather than promote healthy habits.”
This system creates a gap between early intervention and later treatment, which can exacerbate health issues over time. In South Korea, healthcare professionals are frequently consulted for minor concerns, from a simple sniffle to chronic back pain, reflecting a proactive mindset. Regular check-ups and early screenings are seen as investments in long-term health, rather than reactive measures.
These practices align with the broader cultural emphasis on collective well-being. South Koreans often prioritize communal activities, such as group exercises or family meals, which reinforce social bonds and health consciousness. By contrast, American healthcare tends to focus on individual treatment, with less emphasis on preventative care and lifestyle modification.
Lessons for a Healthier Future
Swisher’s journey through South Korea illustrates how small, intentional changes can lead to significant improvements in health and lifespan. From school lunch programs to healthcare practices, the nation’s approach to longevity offers a blueprint for the U.S. to adopt. By integrating prevention into daily life and fostering social connections, Americans can take steps toward a healthier, longer existence.
Ultimately, the path to a longer life is not about extreme measures but about consistent, informed choices. South Korea’s success demonstrates that prioritizing nutrition, activity, and community can create a sustainable foundation for wellness. As the U.S. continues to grapple with declining health metrics, the lessons from this neighboring nation provide a clear roadmap for meaningful change.
