Geographic disparities in suicide mortality in South Korea (2012–2023): Socioeconomic protective factors associated with suicide cold spots

Abstract Background South Korea has recorded the highest suicide rate among OECD countries since 2004, and suicide remains a critical public health issue. Suicide is not only an individual concern but also an indicator of the broader community’s mental health, necessitating consideration of regional-level factors. Objective This study aims to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of suicide mortality in South Korea and to identify regional factors associated with lower suicide rates, thereby providing an evidence base for community-based suicide prevention strategies. Methods Age-standardized suicide mortality rates and regional characteristics were collected for 229 administrative districts (Si/Gun/Gu) from 2012 to 2023. Spatial autocorrelation was assessed using Moran’s I, and spatiotemporal clusters were identified through Emerging Hotspot Analysis. Panel regression analysis was then conducted on the 70 identified cold spot regions. Results Suicide rates exhibited statistically significant spatial autocorrelation across all years. Of the 75 identified regions, 70 were classified as cold spots and 5 as hot spots. An increase in the proportion of the elderly population (β = − 0.548, p < .01) and a higher number of social welfare facilities per 100,000 population (β = − 0.117, p < .05) were significantly associated with a reduction in suicide mortality in the following year. Conclusion Suicide rates in South Korea showed clear spatiotemporal disparities across regions. The proportion of the elderly population and the number of social welfare facilities were identified as significant regional factors influencing suicide mortality. This study highlights the need for region-specific suicide prevention policies.