Health literacy in Korea: findings from the 2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess health literacy and identify vulnerable groups, providing a basis for developing health policies aimed at improving health literacy, using data from the 2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). METHODS: The health literacy measurement tool used in the 2023 KNHANES comprised a total of 10 items spanning the domains of disease prevention, health promotion, healthcare, and technology and resources. Health literacy was analyzed in relation to socio-demographic characteristics and major health behaviors among 5,906 adults aged 19 years or older, using the SAS program. RESULTS: As of 2023, the overall prevalence of adequate health literacy among adults was 60.4%. Adequate health literacy was higher in women (62.2%) than in men (58.6%). Younger individuals exhibited higher levels of health literacy, with those aged 19-64 years at 65.9%, compared to only 40.3% among those aged 65 or older. Higher income and education levels were also associated with greater health literacy. Regarding health behavior characteristics, individuals practicing healthy lifestyles, such as non-smoking, engaging in physical activity, and undergoing health checkups, demonstrated higher health literacy than those who did not engage in such behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: Six out of 10 Korean adults demonstrated adequate health literacy, but significant differences were observed according to socio-demographic characteristics (e.g., age and education) and health behaviors (e.g., smoking and physical activity). Tailored education and policy initiatives are necessary to improve health literacy, particularly targeting older adults, low-income groups, individuals with lower education, and those who do not practice healthy lifestyles.