Summary of "저출산·고령화 해결이 대한민국의 미래 / YTN"

Korea’s demographic challenge: low fertility and rapid aging

This YTN report, part of a series commemorating Korea’s 70th anniversary of liberation, examines how Korea’s post‑liberation gains—notably population growth and a near 20‑year rise in life expectancy—are now threatened by very low fertility and rapid population aging.

Low birth rates and rapid aging are identified as the nation’s biggest concerns for the coming decade.

Key findings

Korea’s fertility rate was about 1.2 last year, among the lowest in OECD countries.
The elderly share of the population has risen sharply: from 15th place in 1960 to 1st in 2015, and it is projected to be one of the world’s largest by 2060.
A declining working‑age population is expected to shrink the labor force and depress Korea’s potential economic growth rate. Projections indicate a steep fall in Korea’s working‑age population ranking by 2060.
Analysts agree that addressing low fertility and aging is essential to revive Korea’s slowing growth engine.

Recommended policy responses

Experts argue that raising the birth rate is necessary to expand the economically active population. Key measures recommended include:

Resolve childcare barriers
- Remove obstacles that prevent or deter women from entering and remaining in the workforce.
- Make childcare a viable and satisfactory choice for families.
Increase public and financial investment
- Implement much bolder public spending and financial support for families and childcare than currently provided.
Reconsider the definition of “elderly” and expand opportunities for older adults
- Promote job creation and other opportunities for older people to remain economically active.

Conclusion

Together, these demographic trends—very low fertility and rapid population aging—pose a major risk to Korea’s future labor supply and economic growth. Analysts emphasize that substantial policy changes and investments are needed to counteract these trends.