Google News Alert: Korea’s Infertility Treatment Surges as Birth Rates Plummet
SEOUL, South Korea – In a groundbreaking development, Korea is witnessing a significant rise in infertility treatments, offering hope in mitigating the country’s dire population crisis. According to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), the demand for infertility treatments in Korea has surged by 50% since 2018, marking a notable shift in reproductive health strategies.
Surge in Infertility Treatments
In 2022, the number of infertility treatments conducted nationwide reached 200,000, emphasizing the growing need for such services. Last year, one in every six babies born in Seoul was a result of infertility treatment. Kim Mo, who underwent a test-tube procedure late last year, shared her experience with the BBC, highlighting the intense demand: “I waited more than three hours even with a reservation in January this year.”
Expert Insights
Experts attribute the rise in infertility treatments to a change in family planning attitudes among the younger generation. Sarah Harper, a professor at Oxford University, explained that younger Koreans are increasingly seeking to control their own lives and family plans, which has led to increased reliance on treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
The Population Crisis and Long-term Implications
Korea’s total fertility rate has continued to decline for eight consecutive years, dropping to 0.72 in 2023 from 1.24 in 2015. This trend has sparked grave concerns about the country’s future population, potentially leading to a 50% reduction in population size over the next six decades. However, there is cause for cautious optimism, as recent changes in attitude towards pregnancy and family planning could signal a turning point.
Policy and Support
The Korean government has been proactive in addressing these concerns. The city of Seoul provides financial support of up to 1.1 million won for IVF procedures, though the actual costs often exceed 2 million won. Despite these challenges, experts and policymakers alike see potential in recent trends.
Choi Seul-ki, a professor at the Korea Development Institute, noted, “It is a small but meaningful change. If this trend continues, long-term positive changes can occur.” The rising demand for infertility treatments underscores both the urgency and the hope for addressing Korea’s population crisis.
