Factors Affecting the Health-Related Quality of Life of Korean Adult Workers: An Analysis by Age Group

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to identify factors influencing the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of adult workers in South Korea, and to provide evidence-based insights for developing health promotion policies targeting working adults in a rapidly changing social environment. METHODS Data were obtained from the health survey component of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), provided by the National Statistical Office. A total of 1,365 office workers aged 19 to 60 years (mean age = 41.04 ± 11.23; 646 men and 719 women) were included. Following guidelines for complex sample design, frequency analyses, group difference tests, and multiple regression analyses were conducted using SPSS version 24.0. RESULTS Individual characteristics such as gender, age, and employment type were found to significantly affect HRQoL, as well as related factors including psychological and physical health, healthy eating habits, sleep time, and physical activity. In particular, psychological and physical health, along with physical activity, were confirmed as major predictors of HRQoL(R2=0.254~0.282). Age-specific variations in these influencing factors were also observed (20’s: psychological health, 30’s: psychological health, physical activity, health eating habits, 40’s: psychological and physical health and physical activity, 50’: psychological health, physical activity), highlighting the importance of tailored intervention strategies. CONCLUSIONS Adult office workers play a critical role in the functioning and development of society. Improving their HRQoL is essential not only for individual well-being but also for national productivity and sustainability. The findings suggest that intervention strategies should consider both the psychological dimensions of health and the differing needs across age groups to effectively promote a healthier working population.