South Korea Addresses Digital Divide Among Seniors with Technology Training Programs
South Korea, a global leader in technology, is actively working to bridge a significant digital divide affecting its senior population. The government has initiated training programs designed to equip older Koreans with essential digital literacy skills. These programs cover various aspects of modern technology, including online shopping, the use of artificial intelligence (AI), and general interaction with everyday digital devices. This initiative comes as the country faces a rapidly aging society, with over 20% of its 52 million citizens being over the age of 65. The goal is to prevent senior citizens from feeling isolated or 'lost' in an increasingly digital world, as expressed by participants like 70-year-old Yoon Bok-soon, who acknowledged feeling 'baffled' by technology at times. The training sessions are being conducted at community centers, such as one located south of Seoul, to make them accessible to the target demographic.
