Illustration by Kim Dae-jung.
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Summary: President Yoon Suk-yeol has declared a state of national emergency due to the shrinking population in South Korea, focusing on increasing the birth rate. Despite past efforts and significant spending on family benefits, the birth rate continues to decline. The root of the issue lies in the lack of freedom and societal norms around reproduction. In the modern era, reproduction is seen more as a form of self-actualization rather than a basic human need. Financial constraints, time poverty, and job instability contribute to the reluctance of Koreans to have children. Yoon’s plans to address the low birth rate through initiatives like increased paternity leave may face challenges in implementation given the current work culture in South Korea. Without fundamental changes to the capitalist system and societal structures, efforts to boost the birth rate are likely to be ineffective.
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