South Korea/Society

Society in South Korea

An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Social Domains

Demographics

Coming Soon
Population
51.7M(2023)
Population Growth
0.1%(2023)
Fertility Rate
0.72(2023)
Death Rate
6.0 per 1k(2023)
Net Migration
+76K(2024)

Public Health

Coming Soon
Life Expectancy
83.43(2023)
Under-5 Mortality
2.8 per 1k(2023)
Maternal Mortality
4 per 100k(2023)
Health Expenditure
9.9%(2023)

Education & Human Capital

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Literacy Rate
98.8%(2018)
Primary Enrollment
97.3%(2017)
Secondary Enrollment
97.9%(2022)
Tertiary Enrollment
103.3(2022)
Education Expenditure
4.9%(2021)

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Coming Soon
Internet Users
97.4%(2023)
Access to Electricity
100%(2023)
Access to Basic Drinking Water
100%(2022)
Urban Population
42.1M(2023)
Rural Population
9.6M(2023)

Current Social Overview of South Korea

A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.

  • South Korea has an estimated population of 51.7M
    2023
    , with a modest annual growth rate of 0.1%
    2023
    , suggesting a mature demographic transition with stable, but limitated, population increase. The critically low fertility rate of 0.7 births per woman
    2023
    presents severe demographic challenges, including accelerated population aging and contraction, impacting economic and social systems. Positive net migration of approximately 76K individuals annually (or 1.5 per 1,000 inhabitants)
    2024
    contributes to population stability and growth.
  • Regarding public health, a life expectancy of 83.4 years
    2023
    demonstrates exceptional health outcomes in the nation, positioning it among the world's healthiest populations. Concurrently, healthcare system effectiveness is further validated by favorable maternal and child health outcomes, reflected in a child mortality rate (under 5 years) of 2.8 per 1,000 live births
    2023
    and a maternal mortality rate of 4 per 100,000 live births
    2023
    . These outcomes are supported by a moderate commitment to health system development, with 9.9% of GDP directed to healthcare expenditure
    2023
    .
  • The country boasts exceptional educational attainment with a near-universal adult literacy rate of 99%
    2018
    , establishing a robust foundation for a knowledge-based economy. Complementing this, the educational pipeline demonstrates high efficiency with 97% primary enrollment
    2017
    and 98% secondary participation
    2022
    , ensuring comprehensive skill development and a prepared workforce. This educational framework is supported by moderate public support, with 4.9% of GDP allocated to public educational expenditure
    2021
    , reflecting a balanced approach to funding.
  • In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, as a highly urbanized society with 81% of the population residing in urban areas
    2023
    , the country benefits from concentrated economic activity, efficient service delivery, and innovation potential. Furthermore, infrastructure modernization is highly advanced, with near-universal electricity access and high digital connectivity (97% internet penetration
    2023
    ), strategically positioning the country for robust participation in the global digital economy.

Key Development Insights

Population Dynamics

Immigration is a key factor in stabilizing the population and offsetting low native birth rates, supporting economic continuity.

Public Health System

Sustained, high investment in healthcare underpins the country's excellent life expectancy and human development outcomes.

Human Capital Formation

A highly educated populace positions the nation for success in the global knowledge economy. Keeping talent is a vital strength.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

A highly urbanized, digitally connected society creates a strong foundation for service-based industries and global market access.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.