In 2022, South Korea had the lowest fertility rate among OECD countries, reaching a record low of 0.78 children per woman, according to Statistics Korea. This decline signals a significant shift in attitudes toward marriage and childbirth, raising questions about the evolving nature of family and social values. On June 19, 2024, the South Korean government declared a "National Population Emergency" and introduced measures such as enhanced parental leave, improved childcare services, expanded tax credits, and housing support. Despite these measures, the trend has not been reversed. This study, conducted from September 2023 to March 2024, investigates the underlying causes of increasing non-marriage and low birth rates in South Korea. By conducting in-depth interviews with 24 individuals aged 20 to 70, it seeks to identify the various factors contributing to these trends. The findings highlight that economic considerations are crucial in decisions regarding marriage and childbirth. Many young people view marriage and childbearing as luxuries that only those with financial stability can afford, a perception reinforced by social media's emphasis on comparison and competition. While marriage and childbirth were once obligations, they are now seen as personal choices. Additionally, social inequality, especially toward women, acts as a significant deterrent, and shifting gender roles and conflicts further complicate marriage decisions. This research provides valuable insights into the complex factors driving the rise in non-marriage and low birth rates in South Korea. Incorporating perspectives from various generations illuminates how evolving values, social inequalities, and changing environments influence decisions about marriage and childbirth.

Authors:
Hyun Hee Lee, Vilnius University, Lithuania

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Hyunhee Lee is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Vilnius University, Lithuania. She is currently doing a postdoctoral project on “Transformations in Love, Marriage and Gender Relations in Contemporary South Korea” at Vilnius University.

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