Demographic Transition Model - South Korea

Why is South Korea a suitable case study for the Demographic Transition Model (DTM)?

South Korea has transitioned through all five stages of the DTM, moving from high birth and death rates in the 1950s to an ageing population and population decline in the 2020s.

What stage is South Korea currently in within the DTM?

Stage 5 - Declining Population, characterized by low birth rates and ageing population.

What were the main characteristics of South Korea during Stage 1?

High birth rates and death rates with stable population growth; high infant mortality rates due to limited healthcare; economy based on subsistence farming.

What major issues contributed to high death rates in Stage 1?

Outbreaks of diseases like smallpox and cholera; poor sanitation and lack of clean water.

What event triggered the demographic transition to Stage 2 in South Korea?

The end of the Korean War (1950–1953) led to a baby boom and population growth.

What factors led to the decline in death rates during Stage 2?

Improvements in healthcare and sanitation; introduction of vaccination programs; access to clean water supplies.

What was the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of South Korea in 1960?

5.6 children per woman.

What marked South Korea's transition to Stage 3?

Economic development, industrialization, and urbanization led to a drop in birth rates.

What family planning strategies were introduced?

Government campaigns like 'Have two children, it's good for your country'; free contraceptives and family planning education.

How did female education impact birth rates?

More women pursued higher education, delaying marriage and childbirth.

What was South Korea's TFR by 1985?

It fell to 2.1, reaching the replacement level.

What economic change did South Korea experience during Stage 4?

It became a high-income country (HIC) and joined the OECD in 1996.

What was the life expectancy in South Korea by 2015?

82 years, a significant increase from 62 years in 1960.

What happened to the birth rate during Stage 4?

It stabilized at a low level, and the TFR dropped to 1.2 in 2005.

What urban challenges emerged during Stage 4?

Overcrowding in cities like Seoul, and increased pressure on housing and infrastructure.

What is South Korea's current TFR as of 2024?

0.75, the lowest in the world.

What social factors contributed to the low birth rate?

High cost of living, intense work culture, delayed marriage age (average for women is 31 years).

What is the projected elderly population percentage by 2050?

38% of the population is expected to be over 65 years.

What major economic issue arises from South Korea's ageing population?

Increased healthcare costs, heavy burden on pension systems, labour shortages in key industries.

How has urbanization impacted rural areas in South Korea?

Rural depopulation has led to abandoned farming villages and economic stagnation.

How is the South Korean government addressing labor shortages?

By importing foreign workers to fill gaps in manufacturing and agriculture.

What shifts are happening in South Korea's economy due to demographic changes?

Increased spending on healthcare and elderly care instead of consumer goods.

What environmental issues are linked to South Korea's urbanization?

Air pollution and traffic congestion in major cities; pressure on public infrastructure and green spaces.

What measures are being taken to address urban environmental stress?

Development of green spaces; investment in public transport and sustainable infrastructure.

How did South Korea's DTM transition support its economic development?

Its smooth transition through Stage 2 and 3 was aligned with industrialization and urbanization, boosting its economy.

What are the main challenges South Korea faces in Stage 5?

Ageing population, low birth rates, and economic strain on pensions and healthcare.

What policies has the government introduced to combat low birth rates?

Pro-Natalist Policies, tax incentives, and subsidized childcare.

What must South Korea focus on for sustainable population growth?

Shifting societal norms towards work-life balance, enhancing childcare support, and gender equality.