South Korea's Fertility Rate Rises for First Time in Nine Years

South Korea's fertility rate rose in 2024 for the first time in nine years, reaching 0.75, up from 0.72 in 2023. The increase follows a rise in marriages and government measures to tackle low birth rates. However, the country still struggles with a naturally shrinking population.

In 2024, South Korea's fertility rate increased for the first time in nine years, reaching 0.75. This change comes after years of declining birth rates that had raised alarms about a demographic crisis.

The reversal was largely supported by a notable rise in marriages, which are closely linked with birth rates in the country, and government efforts to address low birth rates. According to Statistics Korea, marriages rose by 14.9% in 2024, showing significant recovery since the pandemic.

Despite the positive trend, the population faced a net decrease for the fifth consecutive year, with more deaths than births. South Korea's population is projected to decline to 36.22 million by 2072, down from a peak of 51.83 million in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies.)