Summary
South Korea's birth rate rose for two straight years, helped by "echo boomers," the children of previous baby boomers. This trend comes amid concerns about low birth rates in East Asia, which can affect long-term economic growth.
Key Facts
- South Korea's birth rate increased in 2025, marking the second year of growth.
- The fertility rate went up to 0.80 births per woman, compared to 0.75 the year before.
- Women aged 30 to 34, often called "echo boomers," contributed significantly to the birth rate increase.
- South Korea recorded 254,000 births last year, showing the largest rise since 2010.
- The country had 363,400 deaths in the same year, 108,900 more than the number of births.
- South Korea is one of the "super-aged societies" where 20% of people are 65 or older.
- Government spending on policies like baby allowances and child care subsidies might have influenced the birth rate.
