Drug abuse and addiction are pervasive issues transcending geographical boundaries, impacting societies worldwide, including South Korea. Recent news reports and statistical data highlight a concerning surge in drug-related cases within the country. The Korean Customs Service reported a significant increase in drug seizures, indicating a growing narcotics presence. In 2020 alone, the number of seized drugs rose by a staggering 31.6 percent compared to the previous year. Looking at recent cases of drug arrests, the detection of marijuana, philopon, γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), LSD, ecstasy, and ketamine is increasing among young people.
According to the Gwangju Metropolitan Police, the amount of philopon confiscated in the Gwangju area has increased approximately five-fold recently, from 62g in 2019 to 298g in 2021. Notably, drug offenders in their 20s and 30s accounted for the largest proportion of those arrested in the Gwangju area. The numbers of drug offenders, especially in these age groups, are consistently increasing each year.
Recently, the issue of fentanyl addiction, colloquially known as "zombie drug," has gained significant attention, not only in the United States but also in Korea. Fentanyl is an extremely potent narcotic analgesic, exhibiting an effect 50 to 100 times stronger than that of morphine. It is typically used for medical purposes to manage pain in terminal cancer patients or major surgery patients in extreme pain. However, misuse can lead to serious side effects, such as zombie-like behavior, severe brain damage, and respiratory depression, ultimately resulting in death. In June 2021, a 19-year-old high school student was discovered unconscious in a subway station bathroom in Seoul and tragically lost his life. Subsequent autopsy results revealed the presence of fentanyl in his body.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that there are now more deaths from drug overdoses than from traffic accidents and gun-related incidents combined. This upward trend necessitates immediate attention and action from both the government and society at large. A major challenge of drug abuse today is that drugs are easy to purchase around our communities and drug offenders are difficult to catch. According to the Korean National Police Agency, the messaging app Telegram has become the preferred tool for drug dealers, making it difficult for local police to track accounts as the app automatically deletes users' conversations. Consequently, drug abuse has already deeply penetrated our daily lives.
In light of this, it is evident that we are no longer free from the issue of drug abuse. Our country, which is gradually losing its status as a ‘drug-free’ country, has now reached a point where it must recognize drug addiction as one of the important diseases that society must work together to solve.
As college students, it is crucial to recognize the growing threat of drug abuse in South Korea. And staying informed about the latest news and statistics regarding this issue and being aware of societal pressures and influences that can lead individuals towards drug use is essential. By educating ourselves and our peers, seeking support when necessary, and making responsible choices, we can contribute to a safer and healthier future for ourselves and our society. Lastly, if you need help with drug abuse and addiction, please do not hesitate to contact the Korea Association Against Drug Abuse (Help desk: 1899-0893).
By Kim Kwang-joon, Professor, Dept. of Parmacy