In Korea, a Boot Camp Cure for Web Obsession

In Korea, a camp to cure internet gaming addictions has been set up.

The camp is designed to encourage kids to participate in real life activities such as horseback riding. They are denied computer access and are allowed a limited amount of time on cellphones.

South Korea, the most wired nation in the world, also has one of the worst internet addiction problems. Up to 30 percent of South Koreans under 18 are at risk of internet addiction, the article says.

I'm glad that internet gaming is being recognized as a viable addiction and that steps are being taken to help kids in need.

This article reminds me of the instance of death at the hands of Everquest, an internet game. 3 year old Brianna Cordell died of heat stroke while her mother, Mary Christina Cordell, was engaged in a multi-hour session of EQ. (http://www.gaming-age.com/news/2003/8/28-87)

This is another example on how technology affects our world. Not only does it cause a decline in newspaper sales, but a new addiction emerges.

The rest of the article can be found here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/18/technology/18rehab.html?ex=1196312400&en=1cc232c5d328f23b&ei=5070&emc=eta1