Patricia Chica, professor in the Area of East Asian Studies at the University of Málaga, appeared on Spain’s National Radio to discuss the causes behind South Korea’s low birth rate—one of the lowest in the world.

According to the expert, factors such as poor work-life balance, gender inequality, and the high cost of education are driving this trend. Although 2024 saw a slight uptick in births, Chica warned that the issue is complex and requires not only economic policies but also deep social change.

“Economic support is important, but without real equality in caregiving, the problem will persist,” she stated.

The demographic crisis has already been declared a national emergency by the South Korean government, which foresees serious consequences for the country’s economy and welfare system if the situation is not reversed.

To listen to the full interview click here.