Surprising Update On South Korea’s Birth Growth Rate Shocks Netizens

South Korea, which has long struggled with a declining birth rate, has just reported a surprising rise in newborn numbers. The sudden shift has caught the attention of many, especially as it marks the strongest growth in decades.

According to new figures released by Statistics Korea, nearly 20,000 babies were born in June 2025 — an increase of over 1,700 compared to the same period last year. This marks a 9.4% rise, the steepest since records on the subject began in 1981. It also represents the twelfth consecutive month of year-on-year growth.

The trend was especially visible among women in their 30s, who now account for the largest share of new mothers. Birth rates for this age group jumped significantly, while nearly all other age groups also saw some level of increase.

The country’s total fertility rate, which measures the average number of children a woman is expected to have in her lifetime, inched up to 0.76 — a small gain, but one that many see as meaningful given South Korea’s battle with record-low fertility.

South Korea’s Birth Rate Bounces Back For The First Time In Almost A Decade

When looking at the broader second quarter, births also climbed. Between April and June, over 60,000 babies were born nationwide, up more than 4,000 from last year. This represents the sharpest quarterly rise in 14 years. Officials attributed the trend to a mix of factors, including a rise in marriages, a larger population of women in their 30s, and shifting attitudes toward starting families.

Online, many netizens reacted positively to the update, leaving hopeful comments.

• “That’s good news.”
• “Glad to hear it.”
• “Isn’t it because people born in the ’90s make up the largest share of the population? Everyone around me is getting ready for marriage and kids now too, lol.”
• “Please keep having more kids.”
• “Let’s go, Korea!”