韩媒：韩国“一人食”盛行背后的隐忧

Group 1 - The "one-person meal" culture is increasingly popular in South Korea, becoming a significant part of the restaurant industry, with restaurants catering specifically to solo diners and offering affordable single-person meal options [1][2] - As of March this year, the proportion of restaurants selling single-person meal packages increased to 10.4% from 9.7% last year, indicating a growing trend [1] - The rise of single-person households, which surpassed 10 million and accounted for 42% of households, is a key driver behind the "one-person meal" trend, alongside heightened consumer sensitivity to food hygiene post-COVID-19 [1] Group 2 - Despite a general decline in the number of startups in South Korea by 8% this year, restaurants offering single-person dining have seen growth, highlighting sustained demand for this market segment [2] - The rapid expansion of the "one-person meal" trend may inadvertently weaken the social needs of the younger generation, potentially impacting marriage and birth rates [2] - It is suggested that while enjoying personal space and freedom, young people should find a balance by engaging in social activities to maintain a healthy lifestyle [2]