Here’s How South Korean Adults Kill Loneliness by Keeping Stones as Pets

In an increasingly fast-paced and interconnected world, the epidemic of loneliness has become a pressing issue, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. While this phenomenon is often highlighted in Western economies, 

it’s clear that the struggle with loneliness is a global challenge. One of the most unique and heartwarming responses to this issue comes from South Korea, where some adults have taken to keeping stones as pets to combat feelings of isolation and find a sense of companionship.

The concept of pet rocks may sound unusual, but for some South Koreans, it provides a much-needed sense of connection and emotional support. A prime example is Lee, a 30-year-old pharmaceutical researcher, who has transformed an ordinary stone into a comforting companion. 

She lovingly identified her pet stone as a girl, adorned it with eyes, and crafted a tiny blanket from an old towel. Lee even confides in her stone about her daily struggles, finding solace in this simple yet meaningful interaction.

"I occasionally complain to my rock about what a tiresome day I have had at work," Lee shared with the Wall Street Journal, highlighting how this inanimate object has become a source of emotional release and comfort.

Another poignant story comes from a 33-year-old woman in Seoul who named her stone "Bang-bang-i," which translates to "jumping in happiness" in Korean. She describes how this stone, which she carries in her pocket and takes on walks and gym visits, brings her a sense of tranquility. 

"There was some sense of serenity, knowing that this natural rock had weathered a lot over the course of time to reach its current state," she explained. For her, the stone symbolizes resilience and continuity, providing a quiet reminder of endurance through life's ups and downs.

The trend of keeping stones as pets has resonated with many, stirring nostalgic memories and inspiring new followers. A user on local Chinese media recalled their own childhood experience of decorating a pebble from a river, noting how this simple act brought joy and creativity. 

Another user expressed their enthusiasm for the trend, finding it both cute and appealing. The shared experiences and reactions suggest that the idea of pet stones taps into a universal desire for simplicity and connection, transcending cultural boundaries.

The prevalence of loneliness is not confined to any one region. A survey conducted by the Harvard Graduate School of Education in September last year found that over one-third of Americans aged 18-25 frequently felt lonely. This statistic underscores the widespread nature of the issue and the need for diverse solutions to address it.

In South Korea, the adoption of pet stones represents a creative and personal approach to mitigating loneliness. By forming emotional bonds with these natural objects, individuals can find a sense of companionship and serenity in their daily lives. This trend highlights the human capacity to find comfort and connection in unexpected places, offering a reminder that sometimes, the simplest solutions can have the most profound impact.

As the world continues to grapple with the epidemic of loneliness, the South Korean trend of keeping pet stones offers a touching and innovative example of how individuals can create meaningful connections in their lives. 

Whether through the companionship of a pet rock or other unique methods, the pursuit of emotional well-being and connection remains a universal endeavor. In the end, it’s the small, heartfelt gestures that often make the biggest difference, proving that companionship can be found in even the most unlikely forms.