South Korea tackling Internet addiction

SEOUL, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- The growing problem of Internet addiction has prompted the creation of a South Korean camp aimed at weaning afflicted individuals off the technology.

The New York Times said Sunday the growth of the addiction led to the foundation of the Jump Up Internet Rescue School, which employs a boot camp mentality to free people from their modern-day affliction.

To help these individuals, camp officials offer counseling sessions and therapeutic workshops interwoven with military-style obstacle courses.

Internet Addiction Counseling Center head Koh Young-sam said the growing problem has been particularly apparent in South Korea due to the country's technological edge.

"Korea has been most aggressive in embracing the Internet," the head of the government-run center said. "Now we have to lead in dealing with its consequences."

To help tackle the dilemma, South Korea also has instituted numerous related counseling and treatment programs, along with holding the first international symposium on Internet addiction.