According to research by the Ministry of Public Administration and Security in 2010, the rate of Internet addiction on Jeju of those between nine to 39 years of age was 9.3 percent, the highest in the country. This is 1.3 percent higher than the 8.0 percent average and 2.6 percent higher than the lowest, 6.7 percent (of North Jeolla province). Furthermore, among those addicted, 7.4 percent were classified as being at a potential dangerous level, while the remaining group was deemed to need immediate treatment. Also, it was found nationwide that the addiction rate nearly double in families which earn under 2 million won a month compared to families earning over 5 million won a month. Following the announcement of this research in March, the government will organize a council of eight governmental departments to implement last year’s Comprehensive Plan of Prevention and Treatment of Internet Addiction.

(By Kim Ji Suk, Jeju Ilbo reporter. Translated by Kim Jung Lim)