Obesity has become a social concern that needs the attention of government officials, politicians, as well as individuals.

One does not need the authorities to explain why being overweight is becoming a global phenomenon: People are consuming more calories, sugar and fat. They live in an increasingly stressful society and engage in little physical activity. Koreans are no exception.

Figures back up the trend. A research center affiliated with the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation said that in 2014, 31.5 percent of Koreans aged 19 and over were overweight - which means they have a body mass index of 25 or above. This is an increase from 30.3 percent in 2001.

The National Health Insurance Service said that obese Koreans -- those with a BMI of 30 or above -- accounted for 4.2 percent of Koreans in 2012, up from 2.5 percent in 2002. It predicted that one in 17 South Koreans will be obese in 2025.

With obesity blamed for diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia and heart problems, relevant medical costs are fast growing. NHIS said that medial costs related to obesity reached 3.7 trillion won ($3.24 billion) in 2013, compared with 800 billion won in 2002. This is set to rise to 7 trillion won in 2025.

One problem is that the low-income group is more vulnerable to obesity, partly due to their limited access to education, balanced nutrition and proper exercise.

Lifestyles that involve heavy drinking, smoking and poor dietary habits also affect one’s weight, which is why moderation and self-control are key to fighting the problem.

But obesity -- like addictions to drinking, smoking and gaming -- is a problem the government should take a proactive role in dealing with. Good examples include the British government’s decision to impose a sugar tax and the U.S. state of California’s ban on carbonated drinks at public schools.

The Korean government, which announced plans to limit the use of sugar in April, unveiled this week plans to restrict advertisements for some children’s foods and high-caffeine milk products. We hope to see more of such initiatives to help Koreans shed excess fat.