Vegetation Density and Emotional Resilience: The Role of Greenness in Reducing Negative Affectivity in South Korea

This study investigates the relationship between vegetation density and emotional well-being in South Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing on district-level vegetation indices derived from remote sensing data and individual-level responses from a nationally representative survey. By integrating environmental and psychological data, the analysis offers a comprehensive assessment of how green environments shape affective states, with a particular focus on the distinct dynamics of negative affectivity. The results indicate that while vegetation density is not significantly associated with positive affect, it is consistently linked to reductions in negative affect across both aggregate and individual levels. These findings underscore the role of green spaces as a protective factor against psychological distress, especially in socio-environmental contexts marked by elevated emotional strain. This study highlights the importance of incorporating ecological considerations into public health and urban planning strategies, emphasizing the value of accessible and well-distributed green infrastructure in promoting emotional resilience, societal well-being, and social cohesion.