As of the end of 2023, South Korea's reading population stands at an average of 48.5%, indicating that more than half of the citizens do not read a single book throughout the year. The trend reveals a troubling pattern where reading rates drop significantly after the age of 60; while the average person reads 7.2 books annually, individuals in their 40s read the most at 10.3 books, whereas those over 60 fall below 3 books. Factors contributing to this decline include physical limitations such as deteriorating eyesight and the convenience of accessing information quickly through smartphones.

The perception that life can go on without reading is misleading, as fragmented information available online makes it challenging to discern facts from opinions. Historically, distinguishing between the two was much simpler due to limited sources of information and a smaller number of prevailing opinions. In contrast, today's digital landscape bombards individuals with diverse content, fostering confirmation bias and inhibiting critical thinking unless one cultivates the ability to analyze and filter information effectively.

Moreover, social media algorithms exacerbate this issue by only presenting users with information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs. The challenge of sorting through a plethora of mixed information complicates the quest for truth, especially for those who hold strong convictions. Ultimately, fostering a habit of reading is crucial for developing deep observational skills and mitigating the intellectual rigidity seen in older generations today.