"Much More Affordable Than a Night Out at the Pub"... Generation Z Immersed in 'Quiet Hobbies' Over Golf or Fitness [The World is Z Gold]

Generation Z Seeks a Mental Pause
Crafts Like Knitting and Pottery Gain Popularity
Immersive Experiences and Reasonable Costs Drive the Appeal

Editor's NoteGeneration Z (those born from the late 1990s to the early 2010s) is gaining attention as a generation that leads culture and trends in a rapidly changing era, setting new standards across society. In [The World is Z Gold], we shed light on the lives and values of Generation Z around the world and explore how they are transforming society.

Among Generation Z in the United Kingdom, quiet hobbies such as knitting and embroidery are rapidly gaining popularity. For young people exhausted by excessive smartphone use, analog hobbies offer an experience that allows them to fully immerse both body and mind. The fact that these hobbies are less financially burdensome compared to others such as golf, fitness, or playing musical instruments is also a key reason for their popularity.

Audience members are watching a movie while knitting. CGV

Stitch by Stitch with Knitting... Why 'Analog Hobbies' Are on the Rise

The British daily The Guardian recently reported in an article titled "Craft is Medicine for the Mind: The Rapid Rise of Healing Hobbies Among Generation Z," that "activities such as crocheting and pottery, once considered the domain of grandparents, are now serving as a bridge connecting younger generations and communities." The article interpreted this not simply as a longing for the 'retro' trend, but as a reflection of the desire to find rest amid digital fatigue.

The spread of analog hobbies in the UK is particularly linked to the bleak reality faced by teenagers. British teenagers are considered among the unhappiest in Europe. According to the "Good Childhood Report" released last year by the British charity The Children's Society, 25.2% of 15-year-olds in the UK reported having low life satisfaction. This figure is 8.7 percentage points higher than the European average. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic, cost-of-living pressures, and excessive dependence on smartphones have all contributed to the growing fatigue among the younger generation.

Against this backdrop, so-called "slow hobbies" such as pottery, knitting, and drawing are receiving renewed attention. These activities can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace without the pressure of time, and they are not financially burdensome. Most importantly, the opportunity to step away from smartphone screens and connect with others to share experiences is a major factor attracting young people.

Ahmed, an employee at a pottery cafe in Fulham, London, said, "Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of young customers has increased significantly. The cafe has become a true community space, with many people visiting for dates or gatherings." Regular customer Carmine Valente (34) also shared, "When I am doing pottery, I am completely cut off from the world. It calms and soothes me, and I can enjoy the joy of creating while conversing with friends."

The financial appeal is also significant. Emma (23), who lives in London, said, "Craft experience classes have become a way to restore a sense of community after the isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Above all, you can participate in free events or enjoy them for as little as 10 pounds, making it much more affordable than a night out at a pub."

Knitting While Watching a Movie: The Popularity of 'Knitting Screenings'

In South Korea as well, analog hobbies and offline gatherings are expanding alongside the trend of "digital detox." Digital detox refers to reducing the use of digital devices and restoring mind and body through activities such as reading and meditation. It can be seen as a kind of "digital fasting," where people put down their smartphones for a while to seek mental rest.

Within this trend, "copying by hand" has emerged as a particularly popular hobby. The concentration and emotional stability gained from transcribing sentences by hand are cited as key reasons for its popularity. Kyobo Bookstore reported that sales of books for copying by hand surged by 692.8% last year compared to the previous year, and the number of published titles increased from 57 to 81, a rise of 42.1%.

Interest in crafts has also grown compared to before. A representative example is the "knitting screening." In January, CGV held a special screening event where people could watch a movie while knitting, and all seats sold out, drawing significant attention. The unique experience of sharing a hobby while watching a movie resonated with the younger generation.

Experts emphasize that analog hobbies have a positive effect on mental health. Professor Daisy Fancourt of University College London (UCL) said, "Generation Z is proactive about managing their mental health, and craft activities help reduce stress levels." She added, "Hobbies such as knitting not only improve one's mood but also have a social effect. Participating in hobbies helps foster a sense of connection and belonging, which in turn helps reduce loneliness."