Breastfeeding Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Young Mothers in South Korea: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Young mothers (≤ 24 years) consistently face substantial challenges that result in lower breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates than adult mothers. Research Aim: To evaluate young mothers’ breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, and practices in South Korea, and to examine the relationships among these variables. Methods: From March to April 2025, a nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among 170 mothers aged ≤ 24 years at the time of childbirth. Breastfeeding knowledge was measured using a modified 10-item scale, breastfeeding attitudes were assessed using a 20-item scale, and breastfeeding practices were classified according to the World Health Organization infant feeding classification. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t tests, analysis of variance, and Pearson’s correlations. Results: The ever-breastfeeding rate was 78.2% and the exclusive breastfeeding rate at 6 months was 15.3%. The mean breastfeeding knowledge score was 5.10 ± 2.33 (out of 10), and the mean breastfeeding attitude score was 67.27 ± 16.42 (out of 100). Significant positive correlations were observed between breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, and practices (knowledge–attitudes: r = .24; knowledge–practices: r = .34; attitudes–practices: r = .56; all p < 0.01). Conclusion: Breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes were positively associated with breastfeeding practices among young mothers. These findings support the development of targeted breastfeeding education and support programs for this population.