South Korea’s Birthrate Rises For The First Time In Nearly Two Years

Populations and growing marriage rates, South Korea’s birthrate unexpectedly rose in April, marking the first increase in 19 months, according to a new data from Statistics Korea. South Korea’s birth rate finally rose in April after 19 months of decrease, with an increase of about 500 babies compared to the same month last year.Given that the birth rate had fallen to concerningly low levels before, and was further affected by a base effect, this upturn is seen as a possible technical comeback. Data analysis There were 19,049 births in April, an increase of 521 (2.8%) from the previous year, according to Korea’s ‘April Population Trends’ report, which was released on June 26. Breaking a trend of decline that lasted one year and seven months, this uptick is important since it constitutes the first year-over-year increase in birth numbers since September 2022. The study states that the uptick in births started in August 2022 and persisted through the first half of last year due to a spike in weddings and a base effect. It usually takes around two years after getting married to have a first kid, thus these new arrivals might be a reflection of those marriages. This year’s growth is calculated from a low base, which is in part caused by the steep decrease to 18,528 births in April of the prior year. From 40,000 in 2011–2012 to 30,000 in 2013, then into the 20,000s in 2018, and finally going below 20,000 last year, the birth rate has been declining historically. This increase in births is currently being examined for its potential sustainability. It will be necessary to closely observe the ongoing monthly swings to see if the trend has really bottomed out, but the recent uptick in marriages could lead to an increase in birth numbers in the second half of the year. The usual two-year lag between marriage and having a kid, according to Lim Young Il, director of population trends at Statistics Korea, creates an ideal setting for the birth rate to continue rising between August and October. He believes that the second part of the year could see some gains. The overall number of births during the first four months of this year hit a record low of 79,523, mostly because of a decline in the preceding months, notwithstanding these encouraging indicators.