Korean Prime Minister: "Birth Rate in the 0.7 Range... Fundamental Reflection Needed on Existing Measures"

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo: "All Ministries Must Devise Measures"

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] Prime Minister Han Duck-soo mentioned South Korea’s “total fertility rate of 0.7” on the 18th and said, “A fundamental reflection on the existing low birthrate measures is necessary.” He instructed all ministries to devise detailed measures to address the low birthrate issue.

At the government Seoul office during the morning National Affairs Ministers’ Meeting, Prime Minister Han said, “Despite many measures taken so far, the low birthrate problem is not being resolved but rather worsening.”

In fact, South Korea’s total fertility rate was 0.81 in 2021, ranking last among OECD countries. It is the only member country with a rate below 1. According to Statistics Korea, the total fertility rate is expected to fall to the 0.7 range last year. The “2020?2070 Future Population Projection” estimated last year’s total fertility rate at 0.77.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is delivering opening remarks at the 'Regulatory Sandbox Innovative Companies Meeting' held on the 15th at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jung-gu, Seoul. Photo by Dongju Yoon doso7@

Prime Minister Han emphasized the importance of childcare services, saying, “It is not simply a childcare issue but holds significant meaning as part of low birthrate countermeasures.” He pointed out that while childcare services have been welcomed as a pillar of childcare policy for dual-income families, there have been many criticisms regarding insufficient supply and failure to reflect the characteristics of service users.

He said, “The government will significantly increase the supply of care services and promote qualitative improvements through customized services.” Through this, the burden of childcare on families will be reduced, ultimately serving as a means to alleviate the low birthrate.

Regarding the competitiveness enhancement measures for the green bio industry announced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs on the same day, he said, “I hope this measure will help our somewhat lagging green bio industry take a step forward,” and urged, “Related ministries should join forces to help the bio industry grow into a strong nation.”