Gen Z, Weary of the Fast-Paced Digital World, Turns to 'Ultra-Slow Messengers'
Recently, 'ultra-slow messenger' apps, which take hours to deliver messages, have been gaining massive popularity worldwide. This approach is the exact opposite of the current digital environment, where messages are delivered in a single second. This phenomenon is manifesting as a 'Slow Tech' craze, particularly among Gen Z, who are highly accustomed to digital devices.
'Carrier Pidge,' a representative app, is designed so that once a message is sent, it takes as long to reach the recipient as it would for an actual pigeon to fly the distance. Instead of waiting for an immediate response, users enjoy the leisure of waiting for the message to arrive slowly. This provides a new experience for modern people who feel fatigued by high speeds.
Experts analyze that this change stems from fatigue regarding digital device usage. It reflects a psychology of wanting to communicate with sincerity, even if it is a bit slow, by breaking free from the pressure of having to be connected at all times. Engaging in relaxed conversations without the burden of having to provide an immediate reply is becoming a new communication culture.
This 'slow life' trend is also gaining attention among the younger generation in Korea. Moving away from a digital culture that emphasizes only efficiency and speed, there is a growing movement to enjoy daily life at one's own pace.
While digital technology will continue to advance in the future, interest in technology that slows things down and finds leisure is expected to grow even further. Attention is focused on how this new way of communication, where people find value in slowness rather than speed, will impact our society.