Bryce Anderson received his PhD in social anthropology from Dalhousie University, Canada, in 2023. He teaches classes in anthropology, cultural studies, and sociology, while conducting research in social theory and suicide.

• List of Figures viii Acknowledgements ix Introduction: Beginnings Prologue 1 1 Transitions and Private Education in South Korea 11 2 Engaging Narratives and Methodological Insights 30 3 The Kkondae: Social Expectations and the South Korean Boomer 41 4 Hell Joseon 68 5 Consequences of a Changing Society: Youth Suicide Amid an “Enlightened” South Korea 90 6 Mental Health and Support Systems in the South Korean Context 115 7 Art, Symbolism, and Social Reflection 141 Epilogue: “The Suicide Guy” 147 Index 151

Bryce Anderson received his PhD in social anthropology from Dalhousie University, Canada, in 2023. He teaches classes in anthropology, cultural studies, and sociology, while conducting research in social theory and suicide.

• List of Figures viii Acknowledgements ix Introduction: Beginnings Prologue 1 1 Transitions and Private Education in South Korea 11 2 Engaging Narratives and Methodological Insights 30 3 The Kkondae: Social Expectations and the South Korean Boomer 41 4 Hell Joseon 68 5 Consequences of a Changing Society: Youth Suicide Amid an “Enlightened” South Korea 90 6 Mental Health and Support Systems in the South Korean Context 115 7 Art, Symbolism, and Social Reflection 141 Epilogue: “The Suicide Guy” 147 Index 151

Bryce Anderson received his PhD in social anthropology from Dalhousie University, Canada, in 2023. He teaches classes in anthropology, cultural studies, and sociology, while conducting research in social theory and suicide.

• List of Figures viii Acknowledgements ix Introduction: Beginnings Prologue 1 1 Transitions and Private Education in South Korea 11 2 Engaging Narratives and Methodological Insights 30 3 The Kkondae: Social Expectations and the South Korean Boomer 41 4 Hell Joseon 68 5 Consequences of a Changing Society: Youth Suicide Amid an “Enlightened” South Korea 90 6 Mental Health and Support Systems in the South Korean Context 115 7 Art, Symbolism, and Social Reflection 141 Epilogue: “The Suicide Guy” 147 Index 151