July 26, 2025

In today’s world, health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases are becoming common in India. It’s essential to find inspiration from countries that manage to stay healthy despite busy urban lives. South Korea is one of those countries. It is known not only for K-pop and K-dramas but also for its high life expectancy and healthy population. South Korea has simple lifestyle habits that Indians can learn from and adopt in our daily lives. 1. Balanced and Nutritious Diet One key to Koreans’ good health is their diet. A typical Korean meal is colorful, balanced, and varied. It usually includes rice, soup, grilled or boiled fish or meat, and many side dishes (called *banchan*), featuring seasonal vegetables, pickled items, and fermented foods like kimchi. Kimchi, made from fermented cabbage and radish, is rich in probiotics that are great for gut health. In India, we also have a tradition of diverse and healthy foods, like millets, pulses, seasonal veggies, and fermented items such as idli, dosa batter, and homemade pickles. However, fast food, processed snacks, and sugary drinks have gradually replaced our healthier options. By taking inspiration from Korea, we can return to balanced thalis, include more fresh vegetables, and consciously add probiotic-rich foods to our diet. Small changes, like swapping sugary drinks for buttermilk, kanji, or green tea, can make a big difference. 2. Eating in Moderation In Korea, people generally practice portion control. Meals are served in small plates and bowls, which encourages tasting different dishes without overeating. Mindful eating is also common; people eat slowly, chew well, and enjoy food with family. In India, food plays an important role in celebrations and hospitality, but this sometimes leads to overeating. Large portions at weddings, functions, or even daily meals can burden the digestive system. By following the Korean habit of smaller portions and mindful eating, we can avoid lifestyle diseases linked to overeating. 3. Staying Physically Active Regular physical activity is essential in Korean life. Walking is common; people prefer to walk to nearby shops or public transport stations. Hiking is nearly a national hobby in Korea. Parks and mountains are filled with families, students, and elderly people enjoying weekends outdoors. In contrast, many Indian cities lack good walking spaces, and people tend to rely heavily on vehicles, even for short distances. Busy schedules and traffic also discourage outdoor exercise. However, small changes, such as walking or cycling for short trips, taking stairs instead of elevators, or spending weekends in parks rather than malls, can make a significant impact. Community programs like group yoga, cycling clubs, or weekend treks can also make fitness fun and social. 4. Clean and Supportive Public Spaces South Korea’s cities are known for their clean, well-maintained parks, walking trails, and recreational areas. Elderly people can often be seen stretching, using outdoor gym equipment, or simply walking together. The government actively supports this by providing clean parks, safe sidewalks, and hiking trails. India can take inspiration from this by investing more in green spaces, safe footpaths, and outdoor fitness areas. While many Indian cities have public parks, they often lack proper maintenance. Clean, accessible, and safe community parks can encourage people to step out and stay active. 5. Hydration and Healthy Drink. Koreans drink plenty of plain water and herbal teas. Barley tea (boricha), ginseng tea, and green tea are commonly consumed instead of sugary sodas. Soups and broths are regular parts of meals, helping with hydration and nutrition. India also has a culture of herbal drinks, such as tulsi tea, kadha, jeera water, and various traditional beverages. However, sugary cold drinks and energy drinks are becoming more popular, especially among young people. By reintroducing traditional healthy drinks, we can cut out empty calories and boost immunity naturally. 6. Stress Management and Community Bonding Another healthy aspect of Korean life is their approach to stress relief and community bonding. *Jimjilbangs* (public bathhouses and saunas) are popular places where families and friends relax together. Spending time in nature, sharing meals, and taking breaks to rest are highly valued. In India, stress levels are rising due to work pressure, urban crowding, and lifestyle changes. Yet, we have ancient practices like yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda that promote holistic wellness. By combining these with Korea’s habit of spending quality time with loved ones and taking regular breaks, we can manage stress better. 7. Focus on Preventive Healthcare One of the strongest aspects of South Korea’s health system is preventive care. Regular health check-ups are common, and the government encourages screenings to catch diseases early. In India, many people avoid health check-ups until problems become severe. By promoting awareness about regular check-ups and preventive care, we can reduce the burden of major diseases. Conclusion Adopting healthy habits doesn’t mean copying another country blindly but rather learning what works and blending it with our own culture. India already has a rich tradition of balanced diets, seasonal eating, community bonding, yoga, and natural remedies. By combining these with practical lifestyle lessons from South Korea, like balanced meals, walking more, mindful eating, staying hydrated, and focusing on preventive care, we can create a healthier future for ourselves and future generations.