S. Korean show expected longevity of 81 years

South Koreans have an expected longevity of 81 years, making it the 17th longest among 194 countries of the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to a WHO 2013 health report, those born in South Korea in 2011 can expect to live an average of 81 years, 77 for males and 84 for females.

When compared to estimates in 1990, the average longevity has increased by nine years from 72 and one year from the 80 last year.

The level of longevity was similar to those in Austria, Finland, Germany and Greece. It was longer than the average of 80 years in high income countries, the WHO report said.

The average longevity among the 194 member countries was 70 years ― 68 for males and 72 for females. Japan and Switzerland had the highest longevity of 83 years.