Big lessons the US can learn from a country with one of the fastest-growing lifespans

Big lessons the US can learn from a country with one of the fastest-growing lifespans

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 delves into the expanding field of life extension and the individuals striving to overcome mortality. The fifth episode will air at 9 p.m. ET on Saturday, with the premiere available via the CNN app. Swisher’s journey highlights how different countries approach longevity, offering insights into practices that might reshape health outcomes globally.

South Korea’s Health Advantage

When it comes to extending life, the United States might find itself looking to South Korea for inspiration. In the 1980s, the U.S. was roughly on par with other developed nations in terms of average life expectancy. However, the past few decades have seen a significant shift. While many countries have improved, the U.S. has steadily declined, now ranking near the bottom. In stark contrast, South Korea has made remarkable progress, with life expectancy increasing by 7.94 years from 2000 to 2021, according to the World Health Organization. This gap raises questions about the strategies driving this difference in health outcomes.

Healthy Habits in Korean Schools

Swisher’s visit to a Korean school revealed a striking approach to nutrition. At lunchtime, students’ trays featured lettuce wraps, radish-chive salads, kimchi, and seasonal fruits—choices that might seem unfamiliar to American parents. Yet, this meal plan is not random. It is carefully designed by school nutritionists, such as Yeonju Kim, to promote both physical health and dietary education. In Korea, nearly 60% of families employ short-order cooks to cater to their children’s preferences, but the school system provides an alternative by ensuring every student receives a balanced meal tailored to their needs. This structured approach to nutrition sets the foundation for lifelong healthy habits.

The Diet Gap Between Generations

Examining childhood dietary habits offers a glimpse into the challenges of maintaining health across the lifespan. A 2023 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that almost half of children aged 1 to 5 in the U.S. avoid vegetables daily, while a third skip fruits altogether. These statistics are not isolated to youth—nearly 50% of American adults consume poor-quality diets, as highlighted in a 2025 study. The American Heart Association’s primary diet score, which prioritizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and minimally processed foods, serves as a benchmark. Diets like the MIND and Mediterranean patterns, both linked to longevity and cognitive health, emphasize these elements. Yet, many Americans struggle to integrate them into daily life.

SuperAgers and Their Secrets

South Korea’s success in longevity extends beyond diet. Researchers have identified a group of “SuperAgers,” individuals who maintain sharp cognitive abilities typically associated with younger adults. Dr. Geon-Ha Kim, a neuroscientist at Ewha Womans University Medical Center, notes that lifestyle factors such as physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation play a critical role. Swisher explored these habits by speaking with Park Mak-rye, a social media figure known as “Korea Grandma.” At 79, Park shares her routines online, including cooking methods, skincare regimens, and exercise habits. Her commitment to a vibrant social life is a key component of her well-being, she explained to Swisher.

“I’m with friends laughing all day. There’s no room for sickness,” Park said.

Studies reinforce the connection between activity and longevity. Regular exercise that elevates heart rate and breathing has been associated with a 40% reduction in early death risk. Conversely, loneliness and social isolation increase the likelihood of premature mortality by 32%, as per a 2023 study. Even engagement with arts and culture may play a role in slowing aging, as a recent study suggests. These findings highlight how interconnected health habits are across the lifespan.

Healthcare Systems in Contrast

One major distinction between the U.S. and South Korea lies in how healthcare is structured. Hieun Shin, a journalist for Agence France-Presse covering cultural aspects of life in Korea, emphasized that prevention is a central focus in South Korea. In contrast, Dr. Karen Studer, chair of the preventive medicine department at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, noted that American doctors often prioritize treating diseases over addressing lifestyle risks. For instance, a heart bypass surgery can generate thousands in reimbursement, while an office visit to modify dietary habits earns minimal compensation. This financial structure may discourage proactive health measures.

South Korean healthcare professionals, however, are more integrated into daily life. Whether a child has a minor cold or an adult suffers from back pain, regular checkups are common. This accessibility fosters early intervention and sustained care. Swisher observed that the Korean approach to health is not just reactive but preventative, embedding wellness into routine interactions. Such a model could offer lessons for the U.S., where healthcare often focuses on crisis management rather than long-term health maintenance.

Lessons for a Healthier Future

The insights from South Korea underscore the importance of early intervention and holistic health strategies. By addressing nutritional habits in childhood, the U.S. could mitigate long-term health risks. Incorporating school-based programs that prioritize balanced meals and dietary education may help counteract current trends of poor nutrition. Similarly, fostering social interaction and mental engagement in both youth and adults can support cognitive resilience. The healthcare system’s shift toward prevention, as seen in South Korea, highlights the need for policy changes that incentivize proactive care.

While the U.S. continues to grapple with declining life expectancy, adopting elements from South Korea’s wellness framework could yield transformative results. From tailored school meals to community-driven health practices, the lessons are clear: longevity is not just about individual choices but systemic support. As Swisher’s exploration reveals, the path to a longer, healthier life is built on consistent habits, social connections, and a focus on prevention. These principles, when applied broadly, may help bridge the gap between the two nations’ health trajectories.