I think this phenomenon depends on the nation/neighborhood. For example, I was watching videos of Seoul subways systems and the expat was commenting how young

I think this phenomenon depends on the nation/neighborhood. For example, I was watching videos of Seoul subways systems and the expat was commenting how young kids were going about on their own to school and such, without adult supervision. Same with Tokyo too. But yes, I don't let my kids out. I would only if I lived in a gated, nice community. But I don't so they rarely go out on their own, except for soccer games, school etc... Man, what have we done?