Have you ever wondered, "How much do people my age usually weigh?" or "Is my current BMI considered normal?" BMI (Body Mass Index) is the most common indicator for measuring obesity, but its interpretation and average values can vary slightly depending on age and gender.
In this post, we will explore BMI trends by age group, obesity standards specifically for Koreans, and health management points tailored to different life stages.
1. Obesity Standards for Koreans (KSSO)
First, we need to clearly understand the criteria for judging whether one is obese. Unlike Westerners, Asians (including Koreans) have a higher risk of complications such as diabetes even at a lower BMI, so strictly tighter standards are applied.
| Classification | BMI Range ($kg/m^2$) |
|---|---|
| Underweight | Less than 18.5 |
| Normal | 18.5 ~ 22.9 |
| Pre-obese (Overweight) | 23 ~ 24.9 |
| Obese | 25 or higher |
Note: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as a BMI of 30 or higher, but in Korea, a BMI of 25 or higher is defined as obese.
2. Average BMI and Obesity Trends by Age
Looking at data from Statistics Korea and the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, interesting characteristics appear for each age group.
20s: Steep Increase
In the past, people in their 20s were the slimmest generation. However, due to recently westernized dietary habits and delivery food culture, this is the age group where the obesity rate is increasing the fastest. The increase in obesity among men in their 20s is particularly notable.
30s~40s: Obesity Alert for Men
The 3040 generation, who are most active in social life, represent the highest segment for male obesity prevalence due to frequent company dinners, stress, and lack of exercise. For men in their 40s, the obesity rate approaches 50%. Conversely, women in this period tend to maintain relatively lower obesity rates as they pay the most attention to diet and self-care.
50s and Above: Increase in Female Obesity
From the 50s onwards, as women go through menopause and hormonal changes occur, female obesity rates increase sharply. Because muscle mass decreases and basal metabolic rate drops, the body constitution changes to gain weight easily even when eating the same amount.
Children and Adolescents (Under 18)
Growing children do not use the same BMI standards as adults; instead, they use percentiles by gender and age.
- 85th ~ 94th Percentile: Risk of Overweight
- 95th Percentile or higher: Obese
3. Health Management Tips by Age
- 20s & 30s: Rather than starvation diets, building up your basal metabolic rate through strength training serves as the foundation for lifelong health. Reduce the intake of delivery food and liquid fructose (sugary drinks).
- 40s & 50s: Management of metabolic syndrome factors like blood pressure and blood sugar is essential. Instead of intense exercise, consistency with low-impact cardio such as brisk walking or swimming is recommended to protect your joints.
- 60s and Above: Being unconditionally skinny is not necessarily healthy. Research suggests that being slightly overweight in old age may actually lower mortality rates. Focus on increasing protein intake to prevent muscle loss (sarcopenia) rather than weight loss.
4. Conclusion
BMI is a good indicator for understanding your body's condition, but there is no need to be overly obsessed with the numbers. This is especially true for those with high muscle mass, as their BMI might appear high.
The most important thing is to maintain a "healthy body suitable for your age." Why not check your BMI today and start a management method that fits your age group?