The birth rate in South Korea has declined every year for 88 consecutive months, reaching its lowest point in March since the statistics agency began collecting monthly data in 1981. As a result, the number of young people in the total population is not sufficient to offset the increase in the elderly population.

Causes of Low Birth Rates in South Korea

The causes of the very low birth rates in South Korea, compared to the high elderly population, are due to a combination of demographic and economic factors. Other factors influencing the low birth rates in South Korea include:

• High Cost of Living: The high costs of education, housing, and child care make many couples feel unable to have children. The significant expense of providing a high-quality education is a major burden for many families.
• Career Pressure and Long Working Hours: Many people in South Korea work long hours and face high career pressures. The difficulty in balancing work and family life leads them to delay or decide against having children.
• Changes in Social and Cultural Values: The younger generation in South Korea tends to delay marriage and having children due to changes in social and cultural values. They are more focused on self-development, career, and enjoying their lifestyle before committing to starting a family.
• Limited Government Support: Although there are policies supporting families, many feel that these supports are insufficient to address the economic challenges faced by young families. Limited financial support and facilities make couples hesitant to have children.
• Limited childcare Infrastructure: The availability and access to quality childcare services remain an issue. The shortage of daycare centers and support for working mothers is a barrier for couples wanting to have children.
• Urbanization and Urban Lifestyle: Rapid urbanization has changed the lifestyles of many people. Life in big cities tends to be more individualistic and competitive, making people more focused on themselves and less interested in family life.
• High Levels of Education: The high levels of education among women in South Korea contribute to the delay in marriage and childbearing, as they are more likely to pursue careers and financial stability before starting a family.

Causes of South Korea’s Higher Elderly Population Compared to Its Birth Rate

The reasons why South Korea’s elderly population is higher compared to its low birth rate are due to the rapid aging of the population amid the country’s very low birth rate. Several factors influencing this include:

• Low Fertility Rate: South Korea has one of the lowest fertility rates in the world. Many couples choose not to have children or only have one child due to economic reasons, the high cost of education, and heavy work burdens.
• Increased Life Expectancy: Life expectancy in South Korea has significantly increased due to improvements in healthcare services and living standards. This means more people are living longer, thus increasing the proportion of the elderly in the population.
• Social and Cultural Changes: There have been changes in societal views on marriage and family. Many young people are delaying marriage and having children because they prioritize their careers and independent lifestyles.
• Limited Social Support for Young Families: Social support policies and incentives for families with children are often considered insufficient. The financial burden of raising children, including education and housing, is a significant factor in the decision to have children.
• Urbanization: Rapid urbanization has led to a more individualistic lifestyle, with many young people living in large cities tending to delay or avoid having children.