Factors Associated with Sarcopenia in Korean Older Adults: Analysis of the 2022–2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Purpose This study aimed to identify factors associated with sarcopenia among Korean older adults using the most recent nationally representative data. Methods Data from 2,362 adults aged ≥65 years who participated in the 2022–2023 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were analyzed. Sarcopenia status was determined based on grip strength, muscle mass, and physical performance measures. Differences in sociodemographic, health status, and health behavior characteristics by sarcopenia status were examined using chi square tests. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with sarcopenia after adjusting for potential confounders. Results Older age, living alone, nondrinking status, lack of resistance exercise, and poorer selfrated health were significantly associated with sarcopenia. Abdominal obesity showed an inverse association with sarcopenia, while low HDLC was negatively associated with possible sarcopenia only. Diabetes was significantly associated with confirmed sarcopenia but not with possible sarcopenia. Conclusion Sarcopenia in Korean older adults is influenced by demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and health status. The findings suggest that targeted interventions focusing on physical activity promotion, social support, and metabolic health management are essential for preventing sarcopenia and maintaining functional independence in this population.