South Korea's birthrate rises again as echo boomers reach childbearing age

Last year, 254,500 babies were born in South Korea, a 6.8% increase and the largest annual rise since 2007, and the total fertility rate rose from 0.75 to 0.80. Demographers link the rebound to the 'echo boom' cohort and to changing childbearing behaviour among women in their 30s.

South Korea reported its biggest annual rise in births in nearly two decades, with provisional figures showing 254,500 babies were born last year. The total fertility rate increased from 0.75 to 0.80, returning to the 0.8 range for the first time in four years. Births have risen for two consecutive years after a long period of decline. Officials released the provisional numbers through the ministry of data and statistics. Key facts: - Provisional figures show 254,500 births last year, a 6.8% increase from the previous year and the largest rise since 2007. - The total fertility rate rose from 0.75 to 0.80, and the average age of mothers increased to 33.8. - Demographers point to the "echo boom" cohort (people born about 1991–1995) now in their early 30s as a major factor. - A study by the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs reported that about 96.8% of the increase among women in their 30s came from higher birth rates rather than an increase in their numbers. - Despite the rise, deaths still outnumber births and the population is still shrinking; final confirmed figures are expected later this year. Summary: The recent rise offers a rare easing in South Korea's long-term demographic concerns but does not reverse the broader trend of low fertility and population decline. Experts note the change may reflect shifting choices and the current age profile of the population, and officials are due to publish final confirmed figures later this year.