South Korea Birth Rate

MenaFM reports that 49 schools across South Korea will close this year due to declining student numbers, up from 22 in 2023 and 33 in 2024. Rural areas account for 88% of closures, with the highest numbers in South Jeolla (10), South Chungcheong (9), and North Jeolla (8). Elementary schools are the most affected, making up 38 of the closures. No schools in Seoul are set to shut down.

The Chosun Daily  reports that South Korea's workforce is shrinking, with up to 60,000 fewer jobs projected this year. The boost from the early 1990s birth cohort is fading, while the much smaller early 2000s generation enters the job market. Key industries, especially manufacturing, face instability as younger workers dwindle. Experts warn that worsening labor shortages could slow economic growth, urging policies to reintegrate workers sidelined by caregiving.

The Times reports  ( archive ) that South Korea’s birth rate has risen by 15%, fueled by government incentives like housing, tax breaks, and childcare support. Cities such as Gwangyang and Hwaseong have seen notable increases in marriages and births through targeted local policies. National figures also show a year-on-year rise, but the fertility rate remains critically low. While this shift offers hope, experts caution that long-term sustainability depends on continued policy support and social change.

The  Korea Herald reports that Nobel-winning economist Claudia Goldin attributes South Korea’s fertility crisis to outdated gender roles at home. Despite economic modernization, women still handle nearly three more hours of housework daily than men. Goldin argues that financial incentives alone cannot fix the issue, as rigid workplace norms and low paternity leave uptake leave women carrying the childcare burden, making parenthood less viable.

The  Korea Herald reports that reducing South Korea’s standard workweek from 40 to 35 hours could help boost the birth rate by improving work-life balance. A Gyeonggi Research Institute study found long working hours deter family planning, with dual-income households wanting shorter workdays. Researchers suggest public institutions lead by adopting reduced hours, though policymakers are also considering extending work limits in strategic industries.

The Korea Times reports that a senior presidential committee emphasized the need to attract more foreigners as part of a broader strategy to address South Korea's population crisis. While previous policies have focused on raising birth rates, the committee argued for a more comprehensive approach, including creating environments that attract foreign talent, particularly in advanced industries. With demographic shifts driven by social changes, economic pressures, and low fertility, officials see immigration as a key factor in maintaining workforce stability.

United Press International  reports that Seoul's government hosted a Valentine's Day matchmaking event to help singles connect, recognizing the lack of dating opportunities as a factor in the country's declining birth rate. The event, featuring art-based interactions and icebreaker games, drew over 2,300 applicants for 100 spots. Officials plan three more events this year, hoping to encourage relationships and long-term demographic stability.

Chosun Biz reports that South Korean banks are expanding childcare support to address declining birth rates and workforce retention. Woori Bank will introduce four-hour workdays for parents of young children, with similar policies at Shinhan and NH Nonghyup. Banks also offer childbirth incentives, reaching up to 20 million won. These measures aim to support working parents while securing future customers amid concerns over population decline and its impact on real estate and banking.

Korea  JoongAng Daily reports that plummeting student numbers are forcing many Korean single-sex schools to go coed to survive. In 2025, 32 schools are expected to make the transition, with government subsidies supporting the shift due to worsening gender imbalances in classrooms. Schools face logistical challenges, including facility upgrades and resistance from alumni and parents, but many that have gone coed report increased enrollment and improved student behavior.