Silver Scientists: Korea’s Seniors Dive into Citizen Science

Every Thursday afternoon in Daejeon, a group of retirees gathers at the community center—not for karaoke, but to monitor soil acidity and chart weather patterns. They are part of Korea’s growing citizen science movement, and they’re not letting age slow them down.

With South Korea officially entering a super-aged society in 2024—meaning over 20% of the population is now 65 or older—the conversation around aging is shifting. No longer just recipients of care, seniors are increasingly becoming active contributors to scientific and environmental research.

Programs like EcoSenior and Data for Tomorrow are recruiting thousands of older Koreans to participate in fieldwork, data collection, and biodiversity monitoring. In partnership with universities and national institutes, these volunteers are helping track migratory birds, measure microplastics, and even classify stars through online platforms.

“It keeps my brain sharp, and I feel like I’m part of something bigger,” says 71-year-old former teacher Jung Soon-ok, who now assists researchers at the National Institute of Ecology.

Government agencies are taking notice. The Ministry of Environment recently announced ₩15 billion in funding to expand citizen science initiatives nationwide, with a focus on intergenerational collaboration and digital inclusion. Local governments are following suit, converting idle spaces into labs, maker spaces, and eco stations.

Experts say this shift isn’t just good for science—it’s essential for social cohesion. “When older adults are empowered, society benefits,” says Prof. Kim Daehyun, a gerontology researcher. “They carry patience, observational discipline, and time—qualities science desperately needs.”

Seniors, in turn, report improved mental health, lower rates of isolation, and increased tech literacy. Some are even learning coding to analyze climate data. YouTube is now home to several senior-led science channels, drawing younger subscribers with content like "Halmeoni's Lab" and "Grandpa and the Galaxy."

Of course, challenges remain: digital barriers, mobility issues, and program accessibility. But the momentum is undeniable. In an aging Korea, the lab coat is joining the hanbok as a new symbol of later life.

Date: 2024-11-18

Reporter: 박근홍