"Want to Have Children"... Why Do 70% of Unmarried Men and Women Hesitate to Give Birth?

Economic Instability Is the Biggest Concern
Health and Relationship with Spouse Follow

South Korea's total fertility rate recorded 0.7, and in a survey of unmarried men and women, 7 out of 10 respondents said they are considering having children. The most important factor considered for childbirth was economic instability.

According to a survey on 'Views on Children among Unmarried Men and Women' conducted by data consulting company PMi Co., Ltd. on the 22nd, targeting 3,000 men and women aged 20 to 69 nationwide, 77.2% of all respondents answered that they are 'considering childbirth,' while 22.8% said they are 'not considering childbirth.'

Photo by PMI

The percentage of women who answered 'not considering childbirth' was 30.4%, while for men it was 17.2%. Women showed a 13.2% higher tendency not to have children compared to men.

When asked the main reason for not considering childbirth, 4 out of 10 respondents cited economic burden (38.9%). This was followed by health status (16.6%) and pursuing happiness with only their spouse (15.9%). Other reasons included concerns about career interruptions due to work or studies (8.3%) and insufficient related national policies and systems (7.5%).

The most important factor considered for childbirth was economic stability (70.3%). Stable economic activity for childbirth and childcare and the responsibility of support through it were identified as the biggest concerns. This was followed by health status (11.4%) and relationship with spouse (9.6%).

Jominhee, CEO of PMi Co., Ltd., said, "As the survey results show, the biggest reason for avoiding childbirth is economic burden," adding, "Unstable economic conditions such as economic recession, employment insecurity, and soaring prices without guaranteed stability are the biggest obstacles."

She continued, "The causes of low fertility are not only economic but also a complex combination of social and cultural factors," and added, "It is time to thoroughly review the low fertility policies implemented so far and respond quickly for the future. From short-term support to mid- to long-term environment creation and infrastructure establishment, comprehensive policy measures to address the population crisis are necessary."