South Korea’s Changing Society: The Shift Towards Acceptance of Unwed Mothers

South Korea is facing a population crisis, with a record low birth rate in 2023. However, there is a notable increase in the number of children born to unmarried mothers, highlighting changing attitudes towards marriage and family in modern Korean society.

While traditional standards still prevail among older Koreans, younger generations are challenging societal norms. Unwed mothers have long faced prejudice and stigma in Korean society, but the latest government data indicates a shift in these attitudes.

Casual relationships have become more common, driven partly by economic challenges that hinder young people from starting families. High-profile divorces and societal changes are influencing public perceptions of marriage.

Breaking Taboos: Rise in Out-of-Wedlock Births

Despite the prevailing stigma, the number of babies born to unmarried women is on the rise, reflecting a shift in societal norms. The government is implementing welfare policies to support single-parent families, offering tax reductions and prioritizing childcare and housing for children of unmarried parents.

As South Korea navigates its changing landscape, there is a growing effort to include and support families previously marginalized in society. With policies shifting to accommodate diverse family structures, the country is witnessing a transformation in societal attitudes.

Edited by: Darko Janjevic