Exploring Korea’s Fertility, Work, and Family Policy Trends

Korea’s fertility rate was 0.8 children per woman in 2025, the lowest level recorded among countries in the world. Why has this happened, what are the consequences and implications for population ageing, and what can be done about it? This review illustrates the various aspects of fertility trends, such as the strong link between marriage and parenthood, the high prevalence of one-child-families in Korea, and the growing incidence of childlessness among women. The review addresses the many issues that play a role in fertility decisions in Korea. It pays particular attention to social attitudes and norms among young people and how these may affect partnering, the continuing development of a comprehensive family support policy, the impact of high private tuition and housing costs, and the characteristics of the labour market that make work and family reconciliation and finding economic security so difficult to achieve.