According to a report released in December by the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the average leisure time in 2024 increased by 12 minutes compared to the previous year, but the monthly average spending on leisure activities decreased by 14-thousand Korean won (about 9 U.S. dollars, 60 cents). Even though people have more free time, they’re not necessarily spending more on cultural experiences.
An example is movies. Korean Film Council shows that last year, the total number of moviegoers in theaters dropped by 2 million compared to the previous year. The biggest reason is the high ticket prices. But that doesn’t mean people have lost interest in watching movies OTT (Over-The-Top) streaming subscriptions have increased as a result. A report from the Korea Communications Commission at the end of last year revealed that 8 out of 10 Koreans use streaming services. If you don’t mind waiting a little longer, you can watch the same movies at a much lower cost, which is great for consumers.
Books follow a similar pattern. While many traditional bookstores have struggled or even shut down due to declining sales, secondhand bookstores and public libraries have seen an increase in users. While people are going after more affordable options, it’s also unfortunate to see bookstores closing.
What about other cultural activities beyond movies and reading?
At the start of a new year, many people set fitness goals. However, as prices go up, instead of signing up for gyms, people started to opt for cost-effective ways to exercise. For example, running used to be extremely popular among millennials and Gen Z, with running crews forming across the country. However, with the rising costs of running shoes and athletic wear needed for long-distance runs, a new trend is emerging—walking, which requires even less gear. Because obviously, for walking all you need is a pair of sneakers.
In the arts and entertainment scene, early bird tickets for exhibitions and concerts are in high demand. Even a small discount can drive people to frantically click their way to securing a spot before tickets sell out.
For people who want to continue their favorite leisure activities despite financial constraints, that’s where secondhand marketplaces come in.
Platforms like Karrot Market have seen tremendous growth in recent years. With the ongoing economic challenges, more people prefer buying secondhand goods over new ones.
Items related to leisure activities such as musical instruments, cameras, and bicycles are frequently traded on these platforms. This way, people can still enjoy their hobbies at a much lower cost.
Another smart way people are adapting is through subscription services. Most of us think of streaming platforms when we hear “subscription,” but the concept has expanded far beyond that.
For example, there are e-book subscriptions like Millie’s Library, and even home appliance subscription services. One particularly interesting service introduced last year is the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts’ subscription program. It was the first time a performing arts venue in Korea introduced a subscription model. Subscribers receive a 40% discount on all Sejong Season performances and early ticket access. It has been so popular that all available subscriptions (500 in 2023 and 1,000 in 2024) sold out on the first day each year.
Subscription services are great if you know how to make good use of them. Apart from OTT platforms, many people also subscribe on education platforms to learn all kinds of things with one subcription.
So here are some tips for being able to afford leisure activities during these tough economic times.
According to a report from the Korea Economic Research Institute on 2025 consumer spending plans, the number one category where spending is expected to decrease is travel, dining out, and accommodation (17.6%). But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on travel altogether! The Korean government is offering up to 30-thousand KRW in accommodation coupons for non-metropolitan areas starting in March. These will be available on a first-come, first-served basis through online travel platforms, so if you’re interested in travel, but hesitating due to travel expenses, be sure to check them out.
Also, have you heard of “Culture Day” in Korea? On the last Wednesday of every month or during that week over 2,000 cultural venues such as cinemas, museums, art galleries, and even sports facilities offer free or discounted admission. People should certainly take advantage of it.
Source: Arirang News – Changing Leisure Culture in the Era of High Prices
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