South Korea has reported a notable increase in its number of births for the second year running, according to newly released provisional data. The rise is attributed primarily to a specific, larger generation now entering their prime childbearing years.
In 2025, the country recorded approximately 254,500 births. This represents the most significant annual increase seen in fifteen years. The average number of children a woman is expected to have in her lifetime, known as the fertility rate, also climbed to 0.80, up from 0.75 the previous year.
Demographic experts point to a key factor behind this uptick: a sizable cohort of individuals born in the early 1990s, often referred to as “echo boomers,” are now in their early thirties. This age group traditionally accounts for the highest number of births. The population of women in their early thirties was notably larger in 2025 compared to recent years, creating a temporary demographic boost.
Officials also note a recovery in marriage rates following delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside a slight improvement in public attitudes toward starting a family. Survey data indicates a growing intention among married couples to have children, and births occurring within the first two years of marriage have increased.
However, analysts caution that this trend may be short-lived. The number of births is expected to decline again after 2027, as smaller generations born after the mid-1990s move into their thirties.
While the government has implemented extensive and costly policies for over two decades to encourage childbirth—including cash incentives, housing support, and expanded parental leave—experts question their direct impact on this recent rise. Significant challenges remain, including high housing costs, expensive private education, and workplace cultures that can disadvantage parents.
Furthermore, the nation’s infrastructure for childbirth and pediatric care continues to contract after years of extremely low birth rates, with many areas facing a shortage of maternity and childcare facilities.
Despite the recent increase, South Korea’s population continues to shrink, as the number of deaths still exceeds births. The country maintains the lowest fertility rate among developed nations. Final and confirmed population figures are set to be published later this year.
