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On CampusJuly 8, 2026

OpinionIs It Natural for Young Peopleto Struggle?

"Feel pain, but it's okay for the youth." This phrase shows that it is natural for young people to face challenges. According to the dictionary, "youth" refers to springtime when plants grow, so it can be seen as the time between the late teens and twenties. Young people are not used to dealing with personal issues and often face difficulties in new environments. In particular, many college students experience serious problems such as relationship conflicts and a lack of job opportunities.

One of the most difficult challenges is managing interpersonal relationships. Conflict in relationships is one of the unfamiliar issues caused by differences in personality and background. During this time, they may experience arguments and frustration. According to a 2024 survey on youth life conducted by the government, the top concerns of young people are lack of jobs and relationship issues. These problems cause stress, exhaustion, and sometimes depression.

In addition, young people struggle to plan their careers. Although they are passionate about certain fields, it is difficult to find jobs after graduation. The harsh reality is that job prospects for recent graduates remain limited, particularly due to the ongoing economic downturn in South Korea. They often have to do extra work or internships to get closer to their goal. In addition, they carry the heavy burden of expensive tuition fees, similar to levels in Japan among OECD countries.

However, college life is the starting point of adulthood. Through these struggles, young people grow and develop important skills like flexibility and problem-solving. Even though their future feels uncertain, it is important for them to face challenges and gain valuable experiences. Therefore, universities should provide programs to help students manage stress and build a healthy mindset.