A Study of Factors Affecting Quality of Life in Korean Adults: Analysis Based on the Data From the 9th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Author: Eun-Su CHO ¹ ; Young-Myo JAE ; Sae-Heon JANG ; Kyoung-Hwan LEE ; Kyoung-Beom KIM
Author Information

1. Department of Psychiatry, Bongseng Memorial Hospital, Busan, Korea
Publication Type:Original Articles
From: Journal of the Korean Society of Biological Therapies in Psychiatry 2026;32(1):76-84
CountryRepublic of Korea
Language:English
Abstract: Objectives:This study examined factors associated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Korean adults.
Methods:Using data from 5,620 participants in the 9th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, obesity was defined as body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 and HRQoL assessed by the health-related quality of life instrument with 8 items (HINT-8). Complex survey weights were applied.
Results:General linear and multiple regression analyses showed that among women, obesity was significantly associated with lower HINT-8 scores (B=-0.008, p=0.032), while no association was found in men. Age, household income, education, perceived stress, and smoking were also significantly related to HRQoL in both sexes.
Conclusions:HRQoL in Korean adults is influenced by obesity, socioeconomic status, and mental health indicators. The adverse effect of obesity observed only in women highlights the need for sex-specific public health strategies and the relevance of culturally adapted tools such as the HINT-8.