Asian Are Having Fewer Babies
The fertility rates of Asian economies such as South Korea and Japan have sharply declined since the 1970s, especially South Korea, which has recorded the world’s lowest fertility rate for the sixth consecutive year. The global fertility rate has generally decreased by 50%, mainly due to economic growth and better living conditions. With the prosperity of the economy and the increase in educational opportunities for women, traditional family roles are being questioned, leading to more women choosing not to get married or have children. The government has taken measures to encourage childbirth, such as providing cash rewards and free daycare in South Korea. However, these efforts have failed to reverse the declining trend of fertility rates. Experts suggest that the government should adapt to the trend of population decline, promote gender equality, support the aging workforce, and ensure that women have economic and social support to fulfill their desire to have children or choose not to have children. Meanwhile, male participation in household chores and parenting is crucial for increasing fertility rates. In the future, the government needs to find other solutions to maintain labor stability.