Why Do Some People Choose to Donate Their Bodies in South Korea?

In South Korea, there is a significant need for body donors to support medical studies and training. However, willingness to donate remains low. A recent study sought to understand the reasons behind this reluctance.

Key Findings

• Willingness to Donate
• Less than half of the 200 surveyed adults expressed willingness to donate their bodies post-mortem.

• The primary motivation for donation was to advance medical science.

• Demographic Influences
• Religious Affiliation: Non-religious individuals were less likely to donate compared to Protestants.
• Income and Education: Lower-income and less-educated individuals showed higher willingness to donate.
• Other Factors: Age, occupation, and health status had minimal impact on willingness.

• Family Influence
• Those willing to donate their own bodies were also supportive of family members doing the same.

• Concerns about family grief or the body's condition did not significantly deter potential donors.

• Awareness and Promotion
• Most participants lacked information about body donation.
• Nearly 70% believed there should be more promotion and education on the topic.

Conclusion

The study highlights that decisions about body donation are influenced by personal beliefs, family views, and awareness. To increase donation rates, targeted education and outreach programs addressing cultural and psychological factors may be effective.