Recently emerged as a serious social issue in South Korea: drug addiction.

Hello, everyone.

Today, I would like to talk about a dark shadow that has recently emerged as a serious social issue in South Korea: drug addiction.

Many people ask, "Why do people touch drugs in the first place?" The beginning is rarely dramatic. It often starts with a simple thought like "Just once won't hurt," peer pressure, or an indifferent choice to escape severe stress and pain. Recently, the barrier to access has lowered significantly, to the point where even teenagers can easily obtain drugs via social media or Telegram.

However, the consequences of that single choice are disastrous. The moment drugs enter the brain, its reward system is instantly destroyed. The dopamine system—which allows us to feel joy in everyday life—becomes paralyzed, leaving the brain craving nothing but the drug. This is precisely why drug addiction is not a "matter of willpower," but a brain disease and a severe addiction.

The end of addiction is the total collapse of both mind and body. The brain suffers damage amidst hallucinations and paranoia, while the heart and other vital organs lose their function. Ultimately, it reduces not only the individual's life to ashes, but also devastates their families and social relationships.

Drugs are no longer a problem isolated to a few; they are a crisis for all of us. Through overseas smuggling and non-face-to-face transactions, they are penetrating deep into our daily lives. So, what must our government and society do?

First, we must sever the supply chain through rigorous enforcement and strict legal penalties. Second, we must view addicted individuals not merely as criminals, but as patients in need of treatment, building the necessary infrastructure for their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Lastly, we must implement powerful preventive education from an early age so that no one takes that first curious step—especially given that relapse rates hover near 80%. Once addicted to drugs, complete recovery is nearly impossible.

The trap of drugs offers an easy entry, but no way out. Only when our society accurately recognizes the dangers of drugs and stands vigilant together can we truly protect our daily lives.

Thank you.

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