There are people preparing for the end of the world.
Those known as Preppers refer to individuals who prepare in advance for disaster situations that may strike at any moment. Wealthy Preppers sometimes build underground bunkers to evacuate during disasters, and these high-end bunkers come equipped with fish farming tanks, indoor vegetable growers, synthetic turf parks, computer rooms, movie theaters, and libraries, all including various amenities. However, most ordinary Preppers freeze-dry several months' worth of food or create scrapbooks that compile various survival methods, such as how to bake bread and how to skin a rabbit.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the number of Preppers in the United States is about 20 million, which has doubled since 2017. Preppers have been considered a bizarre group swayed by conspiracy theories. However, in recent years, the world has faced unexpected crises, such as unstable situations due to war, economic recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic. This has raised awareness among people that disasters can strike at any time, leading to an increase in individuals wanting to prepare for disasters. The 'disaster preparedness' of Preppers has become no longer strange.
Large supermarkets such as Amazon and Costco have begun selling emergency food supplies for Preppers. A bunker company in Texas reported that demand for bunkers has increased since the pandemic in 2020, with sales rising more than three times. According to Zion Market Research, the global survival tools market is expected to grow significantly, reaching $2.46 billion by 2030.
KBS 1TV's 'Special Correspondent Report: The World Now' vividly conveys the situation of Preppers in the United States and examines why the market related to Preppers is growing. Broadcast at 9:40 p.m. on the 29th.
[Photo] Provided by KBS
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