Recent Patterns of Elderly Suicide in Korea

Objectives: This study examines seasonal and monthly variations in suicide deaths among the elderly (65 years and older) in South Korea, focusing on hanging, strangulation, and suffocation (HSS) as primary methods.Methods: Using 2023 data from the MicroData Integrated Service of Statistics Korea, we analyzed HSS-related deaths by gender and calculated mortality rates per 100,000 people.Results: Results showed no significant seasonal differences; however, monthly trends revealed that elderly males had the highest suicide rate in June, while elderly females peaked in August and October. Seasonal patterns indicated that male suicides were most frequent in summer, whereas female suicides were highest in spring.Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for targeted suicide prevention strategies, including restricting access to common suicide means, enhancing mental health interventions during high-risk periods, and strengthening social support systems for older adults.