Purpose : Dry eye disease (DED) is a common ocular surface disorder that may be influenced by psychological stress. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between occupational stress and the prevalence of DED using raw data from the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES, 2019–2021). Methods : A total of 3,781 participants who responded to survey questions on dry eye diagnosis and perceived stress were included in the study. General demographic characteristics, such as gender, age, and educational level, along with perceived stress levels and occupational categories, were analyzed in relation to the presence of DED. A significance level of p<0.050 was applied to identify statistically meaningful associations. Results : The prevalence of DED was significantly higher in women than in men and was also elevated among younger adults and individuals with higher education levels. Higher perceived stress levels were associated with increased rates of DED. Additionally, a significant difference was observed across occupational categories, with a higher prevalence in occupations involving high stress levels and prolonged near-visual tasks. Conclusion : Occupational stress was significantly associated with an increased prevalence of DED. The findings suggest that individuals in high-stress occupations are more vulnerable to DED, highlighting the need for workplace environmental improvements and preventive strategies that address both visual and mental health in occupational settings.