Over half of Koreans open to not having children, survey shows (KoreaTimes/22 Dec 2024)

The Korea Times reports that over half of South Koreans of childbearing age are open to a child-free life, with the sentiment stronger among women, younger adults, and those with unstable jobs. Economic challenges like housing costs and child-rearing expenses significantly deter childbirth. At a Population Forum, experts stressed the importance of stabilizing economic conditions and enhancing work-life balance to counter negative attitudes toward parenthood.