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South Korea leads peers in Childbirth Anxiety Over Economic Burden, Study Finds (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 11 – Despite viewing parenthood as deeply fulfilling, young South Koreans are uniquely burdened by the financial realities of raising a family, according to a new international report. They express more anxious about the costs,than their counterparts in Germany,Japan,France,and Sweden.
- A report released Sunday by the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs found 74 percent of South Korean respondents believe having children increases happiness and fulfillment – the highest percentage among the five countries surveyed.
- Though, over 92 percent also agree that childbirth significantly increases financial burdens, far exceeding concerns in other nations.
- Among unmarried respondents, South Korea showed the highest intention to marry (52.9 percent), but ranked fourth in plans to have children (31.2 percent).
- South Korean parents anticipate smaller families, averaging 1.74 children, compared to over two in Germany and Sweden.
The report,based on a 2024 survey of 2,500 adults in each of the five countries,examined attitudes toward marriage,childbirth,and parenting. While young Koreans express a strong desire for the emotional rewards of parenthood, economic anxieties loom large.
Financial Strain Fuels Demographic concerns
Approximately 74 percent of South Korean respondents stated that having children would increase happiness and fulfillment, the highest proportion among the surveyed nations. Yet, a striking 92 percent-plus also acknowledged that childbirth would substantially raise financial burdens – a concern significantly greater than those reported in Japan, France, Germany, or Sweden.
Among unmarried individuals, South Korea recorded the highest interest in marriage, with 52.9 percent expressing a desire to wed,followed by Sweden and Germany. However, when it came to plans for children, South Korea ranked fourth, with only 31.2 percent indicating an intention to become parents, surpassing only Japan.
Smaller Families, Greater Concerns
Even among those planning to have children, South Koreans envision smaller families. The average expected family size is 1.74 children, compared to more than two in both Germany and Sweden.Researchers suggest this trend is directly linked to economic anxieties, despite the generally positive emotional outlook on parenthood.
“The data indicate that financial concerns are closely linked to Korea’s low fertility,” the report stated, adding that bolstering institutional support and implementing policies to alleviate economic pressure could potentially shift attitudes toward childbirth.
A recent government report has revealed significant disparities in the availability and cost of postpartum care centers across South Korea. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
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