Survey Finds Koreans Value Family Time Most, Regret Investing Decisions

1. What’s Happening

A survey of 1,000 adults in Korea looked back on the year 2025. The most common answer for the best thing people did was spending time with family. Exercise and time with friends were also popular answers. The biggest regret was financial management, even though the stock market had strong moments. Many people said the uncertain economy made money decisions difficult.

At year end, people clearly preferred practical choices.
Cash and gift cards were the most popular gifts, with 35.6% wanting to give them and 41.5% wanting to receive them. Other gift options were far less common, such as health supplements, clothing, and small winter items, while IT devices and jewelry ranked higher as desired gifts than as gifts to give.

More people made plans for rest or travel compared to last year, but staying at home to rest was the most common plan. Domestic travel followed, while overseas travel remained less popular. Overall, the trend shows a focus on simplicity, rest, and careful spending.

2. What It Means

This shows that a rising stock market does not always mean people feel financially successful. Many households still feel stress and regret about money. People are choosing safer and simpler options, like cash gifts and resting at home. This suggests cautious behavior toward spending and investing.

3. Watch Points

• Personal finance confidence: Low confidence may reduce interest in investing.

• Consumer behavior: Practical choices show people want stability, not risk.

• Year-end trends: Staying home and simple plans may continue next year.

Source
Park, E. (2025, December 16). Even with a strong stock rally, many say financial management was their biggest regret this year. Asia Economy.