The article presents the voice of a young South Korean individual, 'Oe', sharing their experiences of isolation and the challenges they face in a society that imposes the idea of success and productivity. Oe, representing a segment of youth who feel marginalized, captures their struggle likening it to standing amidst ruins, having to rebuild their life after emotional or psychological collapse. The staggering statistic of over 540,000 youths facing such extreme forms of isolation reflects a pressing social issue, coupled with significant economic implications estimated at a staggering 5.3 trillion won annually in costs related to this demographic in South Korea.

Author Kim Go-eun, who has personally experienced isolation, delves deeper into the narratives of these youths in his recently published book 'Too Faint Existence'. He challenges the simplistic and often stigmatized definitions of 'isolated youths', as classified by government standards, which often fail to acknowledge the individuality and complex realities of those affected. The author emphasizes that many of these individuals who suffer from isolation might not fit official definitions yet still endure significant emotional trauma and societal alienation, creating a vital discourse around understanding the nuanced challenges faced by these young people.

A core concept introduced by anthropologist Eduardo Kohn, termed 'soul-blindness', is employed to illustrate the inability to connect genuinely with others. This metaphor resonates with the plight of those experiencing isolation, as they navigate a world where their suffering remains invisible to the broader society. The discussion implores a reevaluation of societal labels and support systems to foster a more empathetic understanding of isolated youths and to provide them with necessary resources and recognition, thus highlighting an urgent need for a paradigm shift in how society supports mental health and youth welfare.