

One in four South Koreans in their 20s reported experiencing suicidal thoughts, reflecting a mental health crisis amid societal pressures.
Synopsis
One in four South Koreans in their 20s reported experiencing suicidal thoughts, reflecting a mental health crisis amid societal pressures.
People
Synopsis
High school students in South Korea face immense pressure to succeed academically. The country has one of the highest rates of acceptance into Ivy League schools. Yet, it also struggles with a high suicide rate and significant gender pay gap. In 2020, director Kelley Katzenmeyer examines how these students confront societal demands for perfection and self-acceptance. Through personal stories, the documentary reflects on mental health and the role of standardized testing in shaping identities. "Permission to Exist" runs for 105 minutes.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Find out why South Korea leads in Ivy League admissions.
- See the impact of societal pressure on mental health.
- Meet individuals confronting beauty standards.
Did You Know
- South Korea has the highest suicide rate in the developed world.
- The country has the highest gender pay gap among developed nations.
- Korean students have some of the highest test scores globally.
- South Korea has the highest plastic surgery rate per capita.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rank of South Korea's economy in the world?
South Korea has the 12th largest economy in the world.
What is South Korea's rate of acceptance into Ivy League schools?
Korean students have a higher rate of acceptance into Ivy League schools compared to all other nations.
What is the suicide rate in South Korea?
South Korea has one of the highest suicide rates in the developed world.
What are people saying?
Play More Like This
Explore Permission to Exist
Where else to watch
Browse more like this
Related Films
Is this your film?
If you made this film or hold the rights to it, we'd like to talk. We can license it and pay you a share of what it earns.




















Comments