Addressing Obesity as a Societal Issue

At the 25th World Knowledge Forum, hosted by Maeil Business Newspaper and held at the Inspire Entertainment Resort on Yeongjong Island, Incheon, the executives of two major companies that have created a whirlwind of investment in stocks related to obesity drugs, Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, held a session titled “Obesity, the Eternal Enemy of Mankind,” which was popular among attendees.

John Bickle, CEO of Lilly Korea, emphasized the importance of addressing obesity as a societal issue, stating that it affects not only low-income societies but also has a genetic component. He noted that obesity is often stigmatized, with individuals being labeled as ‘lazy’ and ‘ugly,’ and therefore requires a collective response.

Highlighting the economic burden of obesity, CEO Bickle cited estimates from 2019, which indicate that the social cost of obesity (approximately 29 trillion won) surpasses that of cancer (approximately 26 trillion won). He further noted that this cost is projected to increase significantly, reaching 62 trillion won by 2030 and 550 trillion won by 2060.