03-Jan-2025, 01:34 PM
In 2024, South Korea recorded a significant increase in its birth rate, with 242,334 newborns, marking a 3.1% rise compared to the previous year. This is the first increase in nine years, following a prolonged period of declining fertility rates that saw the country grappling with one of the lowest birth rates globally, which fell to a historic low of 0.72 in 2023.
The rise in childbirth is attributed to several factors. Notably, marriage rates have surged, with a 21.6% increase in newly married couples reported in May 2024, alongside a decline in divorce rates. This trend has been linked to various government initiatives aimed at addressing the demographic crisis, including enhanced childbirth incentives and improved parental leave policies. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared a “demographic national emergency,” emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to combat low birth rates and an aging population.
Statistics Korea reported that the second quarter of 2024 saw over 56,000 babies born, which was the first quarterly increase since 2015. This uptick continued into subsequent months, with notable increases in September and October, where births rose by 10.1% and 13.4%, respectively. These figures suggest a potential turning point in South Korea’s demographic trends, although experts caution that sustained efforts are necessary to maintain this momentum.
Despite the positive signs, South Korea’s overall population has been declining for five consecutive years, primarily due to higher mortality rates outpacing births3. As of late 2024, individuals aged 65 and older constituted 20% of the population, officially categorizing South Korea as a “super-aged” society3. The government anticipates that without significant intervention, the population could shrink dramatically by 2100.
In summary, while the increase in births is a welcome development for South Korea amidst its demographic challenges, it remains crucial for policymakers to implement effective measures that support families and encourage higher fertility rates. The ongoing commitment to addressing economic pressures related to housing and education will be essential in sustaining this upward trend in childbirth.
