Do Koreans Not Want To Have Babies Anymore? | Street Interview

[@AsianBoss]

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[@hailhealth4969]

I can make korea over populated again, just take the rights from korean women & ban K POP

[@guguigugu]

"Its not like people are actually getting more intelligent." I like this guy, he gets it lol

[@cris_here]

Exactly 😅

[@derneuschwanstein5824]

He nailed it right there, he has lived in other countries, so he is aware of the unnecessary pressure put on Koreans.

[@Waterbug1591]

All the women: I choose to adopt kids. Also all the women: I don't want to have kids. How to adopt with no kids to go around? 2022 Modern Woman Logic Trophy awarded.

[@deyoungyoung3059]

Amen 🙏🏾

[@mesCheerios]

There are a lot of children to adopt around the world. You sound sexist

[@wearewatchingyouhumans6956]

"Having children when you can't afford to is a burden for the child as well" This! Do not have children if you will not be able to take care of their financial needs!

[@katerinafeiglova7886]

but it is exactly this thinking that led to the situation. People used to have kids during wars, famines even pandemics. And they had nothing. Now everyone thinks money is the only thing that is important. But what is enough money? Nobody can tell and more people are stressed about it.

[@NightshadeGoddess]

@@katerinafeiglova7886 Money will offer the child the best start in life! Better education, hobbies that could potentially turn into careers, technology to learn with/from, and much more. Money is all that matters, yes people used to have kids when they were poor / in wars / starving, but those kids didn't grow up to lead better lives, if they even survived those wars and the starvation, they were usually pulled into the cycle of poverty, which is something no child should have to be forced into! They should be able to enjoy the freedom of being a child without having to grow up too fast. It is only responsible for potential parents to look at money when considering having a child.

[@katerinafeiglova7886]

@@NightshadeGoddess I do not agree that poor parents have poor children. We live much better lives than our parents did and definitely better than our granparent did, almost all of us but most of us do not realize it unfortunately. My mother had me when she was 17 (by accident), she was a single mother, she had nothing, no careeer, yet she did not hesitate to have me, yes, at first it was hard, her first job was in a warehouse, we didn't have everything. And now? I am having much better life that she had, I am traveling the world, I have a good job, a husband and my own apartment. Never in the history we had such consideration for money. Yes, money is important to provide food and shelter, I do agree you should not have kids if you are struggling to buy the most basic stuff. But if you are making enough money to live (the whole middle class), then money is not the most important thing. The love in the family is. If we only think about "oh but I don't want my children to be more poor than me" (which doesn't need to happen in the end) then nobody will ever have kids ever again.

[@Myreactionwhen_80085]

@@katerinafeiglova7886 you really need to conduct basic research into this. If you listened to the video as well they clearly laid out how going to for the very conservative amount in education will still leave you bankrupt. You seem to be encouraging living a rough lifestyle and it just doesn't make any sense when you actually look at the facts of the matter

[@katerinafeiglova7886]

@@Myreactionwhen_80085 what research are you talking about? I know the situation in South Korea, I've lived there. I am just saying that creating a better welfare is not going to help. Yes, expensive education is a problem and yes, by making it free it would help a few people to decide to have kids. But in the long run it is not gonna help because it is not about that. In my country the education is free, the schools are free, the mothers get 3 years of paid maternity leave, there are many social benefits to having kids such as lower taxes or higher pension. And yet the birth rate is lower than ever. So no, I do not believe that money is the problem here in general.

[@Sjalabais]

"To get to a place that’s *slightly* better, we had to pay a *much higher* price" That’s a great summary in just one sentence. You found some amazing interviewees here!

[@madhouse8301]

Agreed, I found that comment very interesting.

[@strife2746]

That was really insightful, actually.

[@kenim]

The girl who gave the closing comments was amazing. Its about creating an enviroment that you WANT to bring your children into this world! Telling us to have more children because the nation is in need of children because of economics and demographic feels like a Feudal Lord's scam.

[@dojocho1894]

Koreans were very impressive

[@AmbiCahira]

I think millennials are globally feeling the same way. If I can barely afford rent, food and bills then there is no way to afford a family. All prices are insanely high and there's only so many hours in a day to work and run a household so birth rate is dropping in so many countries.

[@demri123]

No tv, no car, no alcohol .....drop the unnecessary nonsense and ur money frees up

[@marymary.1995m]

@@demri123 If they work for such "unnecessary nonsense", therefore they should not sacrifice it just for the sake of having children. Even without those little treats you won't get any richer, each economic situation is different, and bringing a child is not like taking care of a tiny plant.

[@JeusAlprime108]

@@demri123 your tv, your booze, together with all your unnecessary nonsense add up together is not even half of the total cost to raise one single children who need daily diaper, daily baby formula (not yet include all kind of other nutrient toddle meal) , infant to children stages all sizes of clothes, all kind of babies vaccines for first two months, all kind of baby medical fee, children academic fee and etc...

[@blablup1214]

@@demri123 What is the use of having children for the sole purpose of having children ? I am not raising children just for the economy. Why having children if you can't afford to have a good time together ? Compared to a child, those things you said a very cheap. Having an extra room for my child is more expensive than a TV, Alcohol and the Car all together....

[@1988kcmo]

@@demri123 What a dumb thing to say. If I live with no bed, no furniture, only drink water, and never eat out, I'd have plenty of money for a kid 😂

[@NightshadeGoddess]

Raising a child in Korea seems stressful for the child tbh. I've had Korean friends tell me that they spent around 16 hours a day studying, that is insane. Getting good grades is one thing, but the guy that said it's too competitive seems correct. It's a lot of pressure.

[@heidilam1978]

Exactly. It's not really about housing costs or lack of money(they might be a factor but not the main reason). Just a generation ago, most Koreans were living near poverty in the western standard and yet, each family typically had like 3-5 kids. The biggest problems(as pointed out by many interviewees), are that now people have such high expectations and the young generation focuses more on higher education and career over raising kids.

[@ykl2555]

@@heidilam1978 it's evident among s.kor celebrities too, most especially the most successful most popular ones. Though being unmarried at age 30 in their culture is still a taboo, they would get married at age 35+ or even 40s just to be financially and emotionally stable aka career>family creation

[@MythicalMacaron]

@@ykl2555 that's because in some cases once they tie the knot their career is basically gone.

[@yonggeun4222]

can koreans stop freakin studying 16 hours a day because all koreans say now is they have no money so can koreans stop making excuses and have 4 babies

[@Hotcheetos777]

@@heidilam1978 I agree, but housing IS a huge factor here in korea. If you want a high paying job the companies are usually located in Seoul. And housing costs are insane for just a small sliver of land, unless you want to commute 2-3 hours to work.

[@KristenLB]

It's nice and encouraging to see that so many average people in the street are thinking about such things that most people in my generation and friend circles where I live are not thinking about. I think people need to think more critically about "how will it be for the child"/ " can I provide what the child needs" physically, emotionally, and financially. I was really glad to hear opinions on something I'm not usually able to talk so candidly about with my friends.

[@buy-gbl-online]

I agree, sadly most western women don't do that nowadays. They start out "intendent and free" then get to 30, and have a child simply because the biological clock is ticking. Not for the child itself, but for their own selfish reasons.

[@우하하-g5c]

Korea's low birth rate is a result of Korean society. It is the result of causes such as the gap between the rich and the poor, high college competition, high housing prices, inferiority complex, social awareness, working environment, work stress, bullying by bosses, school violence, job difficulties, political conflict, North Korea's nuclear threat, and human distrust. To solve this, I think it will take the next 20 years. If it can't be solved for 20 years, Koreans may immigrate abroad.

[@drbenkim]

As a proud Korean who was born and raised in Canada but spent six months living in Korea when I was 28 years old, I am sad to say that it looks like life in Korea is getting more difficult for the masses by the decade. I have two children with my wife in Canada, and I can objectively say that if we were living in Korea and just starting out again, I think we would wonder long and hard before having children. The endless competition and pressure to keep up with appearances seem absolutely brutal for children and parents alike. 😥💔

[@arbsan8366]

Wow I just saw another comment say Koreans are having children in Canada and Australia and here I see your comment is confirmation of that! Sad to hear Korea is becoming so hard to raise a family. Sounds like Japan is echoing the same thing.

[@aajohnsoutube]

What if you were in Canada? I know in the US, it would be much tougher now than 20 years ago

[@따따따리-j6r]

I am Korean and my best friend married a Korean with Canadian citizenship and had two children in Canada. In Korea, wealthy people often have children in other countries

[@cris_here]

I would say it's a wise and selfless decision. Americans and Canadians probably don't think of the eventual hardships the future generation can have. To each their own though

[@ayanverma5746]

Ban both korea 😂

[@rinsama144]

This was very insightful. All those people gave very thoughtful answers. If the government follows suit and "creates a more relaxed environment" like the lady said, I think naturally population incline will also follow. Ultimately, it is up to them to take care of their people.

[@katerinafeiglova7886]

well that depends. I do believe that the most important reason for people not having kids is the welfare actually. Because when we return back into the history we can see people had kids even at their lowest, even during war or famine. That is because having kids is a form of sacrifice and it is easier to sacrifice when you have nothing to sacrifice - such as if you are really poor or you have no hobbies or passions. So making the situation easier as in letting people earn more money or get more benefits from the government does not seem like a way to me. There has been studies on animals that showed that the "civilization" starts to crumble when it reaches the abundancy in multiple ways.

[@balabanasireti]

​​​@@katerinafeiglova7886 I disagree. People in difficult times just have more babies because citizens will be necessary to help their parents and country in the future. However, countries with better welfare and a more relaxed working environment usually have a higher birth rate than other countries. You don't feel like your children won't be safe and you have time for children instead of living to work. We also don't always act like animals. That study seems vague and I'd rather see a source

[@unka2007]

@@balabanasireti the highest birth rate coutries are african countries. so its hard for me to agree with you.

[@Myreactionwhen_80085]

@@katerinafeiglova7886 you are referencing rural and ancient lifestyles. Neither of which apply to South Korea, for example

[@malakatan3235]

Are you trying to said democratic government didn't take care of their people?

[@captainkenamericano5131]

Most babies in the world are from people who can’t even afford them…

[@K-newborn]

rAACIST

[@flowrepins6663]

Thats is the cancer of world. The problem is afrlcan overpopulation. Asians are fine

[@VarsVerum]

It's a combination of expectations, tradition, mindset, survival (raise kids well, they can take care of you in the future type thing), but I actually like what the mother of 2 said. Living standards and expectations have gone up. Couple that with the rising cost of living and trying to take care of yourself is difficult let alone raising even one child. As a Korean American, even though I understand the causality and benefits of it, it makes me sad that my generation doesn't value family as much. This is purely anecdotal but for my family we were able to get through just about every challenge and obstacle because we had each other, and I would do everything I can to share that bond with my future children. I just wish we could have the best of both worlds. It sucks that in order to embrace new traditions and ways of life, it feels like society believes it has to completely discard older traditions even though some of them are there for a good purpose. Then again, like the hagwon teacher said, if you want to give your child a privileged life you'd be up a creek for a minimum of 21 years PER child. It's extremely daunting to think about. And it's only gonna get worse from here. 😔 In a way it feels like the concept of family has become a privilege that only the social/economic elite have access to. Those with money/strong and tight knit family bonds see family as a positive, while those without both or either see family as needless sacrifice that's hardly worth the years of stress and hardship on the parent. Even more depressing is that every solution to this problem is gatekept by red tape, bureaucracy and politics... That being said, what the woman said at 10:45 - "Having a child when you can't afford to is a burden for the child as well" cannot be stressed enough. Quality of life > Life. Younger generations are in a position to where rearing children is a choice, not an obligation unlike past generations. So those of us who want to have kids are likely gonna make sure we have a sturdy ship in order to provide good quality of life for the next generation. For me personally, the one reservation I have towards having children in the future is that I'm worried they'll be born into a future filled with economic/social/political/environmental hardship.

[@michaellim4165]

It's a rat race out there. And it's a byproduct of the hypercapitalistic society that we live in, especially more prominent in a developed, industrial nation like SK. Like you've mentioned, the standard of having a family is being relegated to the elites just as how the economic divide is being further pushed towards the extreme ends. This calls for a massive, cultural change to how we perceive our capitalism by introducing a modified version, though not perfect, that is better than the one we have currently. The solution is universal basic income: a set bottom standard that every citizen receives a set amount of monetary figure just for being a citizen. This alleviates a huge financial burden of just existing in this world where basic needs are met ( housing, food and clothing, etc). It isn't socialism nor communism as people can and will make more money than is already in place.

[@Hello-hello-hello456]

I like the maturity you have when considering the future of your children! You’re already way better than a lot of parents, and you aren’t even a parent, lol.

[@mantabsekali920]

I never heard such obligation to rearing a child in the past, what are you talking about? I think the more important question for this kind of issue is how we can upgrade or maintain the basic needs of living like shelter, food, and education without sacrificing most of our time and resources. We in this sentence referring to the whole population, so we need to find a way to make the ideal living for each person. One thing comes to mind is progressive tax and high minimum wages.

[@earlysda]

Poorer people have historically had more children than the rich. Evolutionary mindsets are the problem here - if your ancestors were pond scum, what's the point of life?

[@amaterasu3325]

So what your saying is that there is too many yone players on KR server.

[@MrDarkNao]

Hardly someone who doesn't have time to take care of himself will want a child in these conditions. A child demands time, money and attention.

[@rockinchik06]

which Koreans don't have. Completely agree!

[@demri123]

So free up your time, save your money and focus on important things

[@rockinchik06]

@@demri123 ya, bc that's just sooooo easy when jobs require most Koreans to work almost 55-60 hrs a week and weekends 😑 *sarcasm*

[@GenF91]

Yup.

[@NB-xu8bl]

@@demri123 lmao what fairyland u live in ?

[@volgg]

Yeah as a korean, I don't want kids (or not even get married), because of these factors: 1. The state of the economy isn't ideal, like the rising cost of housing, inflation, wages aren't keeping up, etc. Also the work culture just doesn't allow some people to spend quality time with children, so there's not balance. 2. The state of the world is a bit scary to me not gonna lie. Global warming, conflicts, etc 3. I have so much more I want to accomplish before even thinking of settling down. 4. The fact that somehow part of my success is tied to being married with kids is kinda BS to me. It's an old way of thinking to me, but honestly, respect to those who do want to start a family, just not for me personally.

[@K-newborn]

global warming is fake

[@chai_lattes]

Amen to #4😂

[@volgg]

@@chai_lattes man, the struggles of asian parents asking you "So when are you getting married? do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? I want a grandchild. "

[@chai_lattes]

@@volgg Thankfully my parents aren't really like that, but I know that they would definitely prefer I marry and have kids. They value my happiness, so they don't push that lifestyle on me, but I know for their generation in Korean culture, your kids success is an extension of yourself. So many of my parent's friends went from what school their child got into, next is how successful they are as a doctor or lawyer or so and so, and now it's look at my adorable grandchildren!! It never ends. I want my parents to be happy and be able to show off too, but in this socioeconomic climate and capitalistic culture?? Even if I wanted to have kids, I wouldn't want to bring them into this world. It sucks that we still live in a society that considers people somehow less than or defective if they choose to abstain from parenthood for many selfless, responsible, and honest reasons.

[@volgg]

@@chai_lattes Yeah I agree everything you said. But that's good that your parents doesn't push/pressure you into getting married and start a family. like you said, I also understand why that generations have that mindset but I also don't want to bring a child into this state of the world too.

[@mashitta5969]

One of the main reason is that raising a child costs a lot. Korean emphasizes education extremely so most students go to 'Hagwon' which is the private institute or academy and they are very expensive.

[@TigerBud]

Those aren't mandatory

[@pokepork7747]

@@TigerBud not an obligation but still most parents are willing to send their sons and daughters to go their in order to get the high score in school exam.

[@yachishairclips2250]

@@TigerBud yes, not mandatory but the fierce competition to go to the SKY university, top 3 colleges in SK and have a stable job in large conglomerate like Samsung, will force a parent to send their children...

[@Waterbug1591]

All the women: I choose to adopt kids. Also all the women: I don't want to have kids. How to adopt with no kids to go around? 2022 Modern Woman Logic Trophy awarded.

[@yoleeisbored]

Should do what china did.. ban all tutoring places and give kids more relaxation and let them be a kid while saving money for parents

[@jimblock3372]

Been back since 2012 after living in the states and as a Korean national, it's sad to face the reality of peers my age. Like many of those featured in the video, I believe the government should provide a "healthy-environment" where it is appropriate to raise a child. Working over time, the wage gap between the top 10 companies vs small to medium-sized companies is really getting out of hand. Just like any other government, all over the world, throwing money at the problem ain't gonna solve much imo.

[@diptanudebnath8555]

Agree 👍🏻

[@Waterbug1591]

All the women: I choose to adopt kids. Also all the women: I don't want to have kids. How to adopt with no kids to go around? 2022 Modern Woman Logic Trophy awarded.

[@9y2bgy]

@@Waterbug1591 One interviewee's opinions doesn't equal "all the women". Secondly, while adoption is getting more support in Korea, traditionally it was very much discouraged and given a very very poor rap. Adoption should be an option for both those who are unable to have children or those who do not wish to go through pregnancy. In no way does it suggest that ALL women will refuse to bear children and at the same time want to adopt. Fallacy much?

[@blablup1214]

If they would at least throw money at the problem. But what are 1600$ compared to the costs of rasing a child in Korea ? Thats just a drop in the bucket.... Problems grow more expensive the later you solve them. I think to make a real impact on this problem Korean government should be ready to give parents at least 500.000$ split to every month until the child is 18. So about 2.300$ a month. 1.000.000$ would be even better....that is like a salary for the task of beeing a parent.

[@visibleuser6895]

@@9y2bgy report his comments for spam, he spam the same comments all over the place. He might be a troll lol.

[@granjadelsur3935]

This isn't just an East Asian curiosity but a global phenomenon. I'm a married Asian woman in Scandinavia living a child-free life. Call me selfish but I'm already knackered after a full day's work so taking care of child/ren is out of the question. Expensive housing, rising interest rates, energy and commodity prices do make child-free lifestyle as the rational choice. Plus, with the advent of social media- I can't fathom the social pressure the youth are facing today!

[@nellieevans1540]

Funny how we CF folks are always called selfish as if poppin' babies to cure boredom and to have someone to take care of them when they're old is not. There's literally ZERO unselfish reason to procreate.

[@granjadelsur3935]

@@nellieevans1540 @OpheliàRose And you know what's even crazier? Adoption requirements. Income threshold, age, and psych tests are basic requirements. Some countries are even pickier when it comes to religion, educational attainment and even BMI! Not to mention the cost and length of time it takes to finally reunite with the adoptee/s. And some people breed like there's no tomorrow, no questions asked.

[@chai_lattes]

Off topic, but how do you like living in Scandinavia? Would you recommend it to a fellow young Asian woman? I'm interested in potentially moving there because I heard they have good social benefits, but idk much about the culture tbh.

[@granjadelsur3935]

@@chai_lattes It all boils down to the person's perspective. I like the freedom here: flat leadership structure; minimal parental intervention; free speech. Here, the people are direct, in Asia you have to navigate the social, cultural, verbal and non-verbal cues interacting with people. I'm an introvert and I like the silence here. But if you like parties and bustling action 24/7, this place might not suit you. You should know how to entertain yourself (the locals form solid bonds since childhood and aren't so keen forming new cliques). Everything's expensive here, so be ready to take up new skills. You're going to miss the diverse and delicious food but you have to make them yourself! You need to learn the language, get a degree from a Scandinavian institution, get a job. The people are civil and koselig (cozy).

[@chai_lattes]

@@granjadelsur3935 Thanks for sharing! This gives me a lot of food for thought to mull over. My biggest concern would be whether I can find community and friends since I'm prone to loneliness. I'm also introverted, but I have a very warm and friendly personality. My biggest draw is the education system, but I'll definitely have to look more into it. Emigration regardless of the country is challenging. Thank you again💚

[@tenseikenzx-3559]

Korea needs a significant change culturally/socially as well as adequate government policies to help support people who want to have kids.

[@unka2007]

they support them . but it is not all about benefits or aids . that is what they are saying.

[@user-mr8gb3jo4f]

Its already overpopulated. If you go outside of seoul or other country its ok

[@CordeliaWagner]

Maybe young people don't want the old fashioned lifestyle.

[@jaauferstehn549]

absolutely

[@brantkim]

Birthrate has been dropping for decades and is common for developed nations. While there are many different reasons the overriding one in Korea, Japan and now China is the financial reasons for having children. In the past having a larger family meant more resources for the family. For an agrarian economy more family means more people to help work. For a developing country having more children creates a safety net for the family and the parents as they age and retire. It wasn't uncommon for children to pay for their parents in their old age. As the economy develops the having and raising of children becomes a cost rather than a gain. When I lived in Korea 20 years ago parents often told me that they spend $2000 per child a month just to pay for their tutors and afterschool programs. This is over the course of 10-15 years just so their children can go to a good university and have a stable job. That method only works if the children are talented enough to take advantage of it and if they are not it is an investment that may never pay out. Realistically with the way the economy of Korea is, not having children and saving the money is a much safer retirement plan than having children and hoping they are able to take care of you in your old age.

[@namelessone5968]

agree, it is beneficial in a personal sense but when talking about a declining/aging population then it becomes a problem on a national level.

[@sleepyearth]

@@namelessone5968 That's why people are saving up for retirement.

[@brantkim]

@@namelessone5968 Yes, it is a major problem nationally especially when government services such as pensions and medical care are heavily dependent on a growing population. Most countries start implementing these programs during the industrialization and growth phase but quickly realize that it is a ticking time bomb once they become a developed country. It's easy to have growth when the road to a middle class lifestyle is a high school education and working at a factory, but once that changes to needing a Master's degree from a top 10 university having more children doesn't look so great.

[@namelessone5968]

@@brantkim exactly, saving up for retirement would be good for the people but not for the nation. that's why some countries would ease on their immigration laws because they need more people, just hope S. Korea don't follow its east asian neighbors when it comes to immigration.

[@brantkim]

@@namelessone5968 I agree about immigration. S. Korea does need to open up immigration mainly to their Southeast Asian cousins to really boost their economy and stability. Unfortunately Asian cultures tend to be very isolationist. They have a very strong bond between national identity and ethnic identity.

[@rosannastark620]

As a woman, i am really grateful for being born in this generation. We have choices, not to get marry or have children. It's really different from the past, in the past, a woman's greatest wish maybe to get nice husband. But not now. We can work and live independently. So in the end, we just focus on ourselves, don't often think about raising children 🤷‍♀️

[@springday8732]

Freedom of women choices are doesn't happen in every country or places dear.. you are lucky you weren't born there 🙂

[@Der.Geschichtenerzahler]

Life is a game of ironies. The fact that our generation is more self-centered also will have a heavy toll in the future. Too many old people, few workers, crisis, wars, loneliness, and etc. No matter what happens in your life you'll always gain something and lose something as well.

[@wheeler5382]

If you were born in older generation you would be happy having a husband and a nice family. You act like 'being independent' and not having family will always make women happy.

[@vvvoiddd_d]

@@wheeler5382 well some women DO think that living independently will always make them happy. I’ve seen so many cases where women regret getting married and have children because it stresses them out so much to the point that some of them are suffering several mental illnesses, those women would prefer living independently rather than finding themselves a husband. So don’t talk like you know everything because you don’t.

[@wheeler5382]

@@vvvoiddd_d The audacity to tell me to not talk like I know everything when you are basing on 'some women you know' lmao. I'm literally saying not to generalize living independent will always be better. If some women find that happy that's fine. Let me 'I've seen so many cases' you, my friend is a therapist that deals with a lot of single women in their 40s, she said where those women sugercoat their life as happy, but majority of them actually wishes to have a nice family due to a lot of reasons instead of going home after working 12 hours to 6 cats.

[@danica1610]

All i could feel is jealousy, jealousy to South Korea, Japan and China for being responsible and growing their economy meanwhile my beloved Philippines, hurt to say this, but the cycle of poverty cause of irresponsible pregnancy is beginning to scare me as a young citizen. Sometimes I’m scared that we wouldn’t be able to get out from this predicament.

[@yachishairclips2250]

Urgh!! Yeah.. The cycle of poverty is so hard to break in our country...

[@ianhomerpura8937]

People here are beginning to not have children as well. The population rate has started to plateau.

[@linaamuliah7513]

Same here in indonesia. I wish l was born in another country

[@desmond89]

I think nobody is jealous of these countries There are a lot of problems there now

[@ianhomerpura8937]

@@desmond89 to be fair, in terms of mass transportation and traffic congestion, Japan and South Korea are doing so much better.

[@johnecker8474]

Here in Austria the parents get a certain amount of money every month for each child they have until the child is 18 years old (the amount is around 150€ for each child). After that age, the child is getting the money until they are 27 but only if that "child" is doing an education. It is called "Familienbeihilfe", which translated means "family support". I think South Korea could benefit from a system like that.

[@Hello-hello-hello456]

That’s awesome! You have a safety net given by the government, makes it worth paying taxes

[@minhchaubuingoc8384]

@@Hello-hello-hello456 the Korean people say they don’t have the money to have a child. Now they have to give the government enough money so that the government can give it back to them to raise the child?

[@shaunmckenzie5509]

What's Austria's birth rate?? Doesn't appear to be working well

[@Maidaseu]

We used to have that in Ireland. Only problem was that it went to everyone equally. Would of been better to increase it and only give to the families who struggle financially

[@l.4475]

In Germany we have ,,Kindergeld“ ,,Childrenmoney“

[@Hannahnana-nana89]

Wow they definitely found the right people to interview these questions because all their responses were reasonable and well thought out. 👏

[@Star-wh9lc]

Money Money

[@jamestk656]

That guy's comment on educational costs is spot on. Spending all that money just to be marginally better at testing on information you mostly won't use in the workplace and does not actually make you more intelligent is just wasteful. I know China recently banned for-profit education supposedly since the government thinks parents have a tendency to try to keep up with everyone else when it comes to after-school education and the increased costs are keeping families from wanting to have more children. I don't know too much about the Japanese *juku* system but I think it's a lot more akin to SAT prep in the States to study for the college entrance exams. The teacher's unions in Japan are against for-profit *juku* since it disadvantages low income families who can't afford them when the education system was meant to be egalitarian. However, the college entrance exam scores are so demonstrably higher for students who went to *juku* that it's hard to argue against going to one of them if you can afford it. I'm not sure where the educational costs are going in Korea but I assume it's facing similar issues. Meanwhile, here in the U.S., I'm hoping my kids do Judo or Jiu Jitsu after school but if they want to do soccer, I guess that's okay. They can stay home and play videogames if they want but only if I can play too. At the end of the day, it probably comes down to competition for the limited number of jobs and opportunities in a country. The more jobs (or entrepreneurial opportunities) available, the less competition, the less inclined you are to join the educational rat race.

[@GeoBGO]

"They can stay home and play videogames if they want but only if I can play too." Thanks for the laugh ahah

[@pitchaiimran8485]

Very difficult to create more high paying jobs due to intense competition from China and America.

[@sneha7435]

I can see both men and women have different perspectives on this problem. Men think it's mostly a problem because of money and women have different but multiple concerns.

[@MissHamilton2988]

I’d curse someone out if they expect me to birth children. I’m a proudly childfree woman

[@landlubber42069]

I'm 35 yrs old and born and raised in America. My parents came from Korea and I feel bad for all my cousins there who are my age and younger. In America, if you study hard and work hard, you can make it. It seems like in Korea, even if you give it your maximum effort, you still may not find a successful career and be able to support yourself 100%.

[@TDK2K]

hell, you don't even have to study much nor does one need college. To reach upper middle class all it takes is to learn a trade after high school and be diligent and smart with finances.

[@meiswos7]

It is the competition which is brutal not successing or not!

[@sb8095]

@Dan Lee that's not true though, even in USA there are people who work hard but are not able to make it and not to talk about the crippling student debt and expensive healthcare.

[@kimberlyu8080]

@@sb8095 in the USA you don't even need college to make it, plus student debt forgiveness is on the rise in the US

[@sidewinder3422]

@@sb8095 It's all relative, I know some truck driver/owner operators who earns $80k+ of profit(or even more) when the market is good. The biggest advantage of the US is OPTIONS, you have so many ways to climb the social ladder, sure there are failures but that is just a fact of life. In Korea the job market is literally get employed by Samsung or go bust for the majority of the population.

[@ysd21cp]

Like so much this kind of street interview. Young people in this video have great opinions and perspectives. Its so refreshing to hear their pov. Thank you Asian Boss

[@zibbitybibbitybop]

The point that having a kid you can't afford to raise is a burden on the child as well - I've been screaming this point as loud as I can for years now. People having kids that they shouldn't have is the single biggest root of all of society's problems, because the effects of poverty often ruin those children's lives and turn them into problematic adults who commit crimes and repeat their parents' mistakes. Society needs to break this cycle before anything else can be fixed - we need to help people escape from financial trouble and only have kids after that.

[@TrinhNguyen-sh4fj]

Very true and my late parents had many of us. They tried their best but we lived in poverty for years until we were old enough to work and help out. But it is much more than just money.

[@attoumakidakaina3413]

Poverty ≠ criminal

[@Cat-hz7yd]

@@attoumakidakaina3413 This is true, however, there is a correlation between poverty level and being arrested for crimes. If you can't afford a basic need, you're more likely to steal that so you can survive, and the police system are and court are less linent to the poor. Inability to access medical care, food, help for mental illness, and hopefulness are all things poverty affect negatively which can lead to a poor person committing a crime. Hell, there have been cases of homeless people committing crimes so they'll have a place to sleep and food.

[@itsjustme8554]

I agree with most of what you wrote, lolwaet, but it's actually not good to bring kids into this world for any reason. We never know how our children will fair in this existence. Life is a crapshoot. I've written similar comments on here but had to write it here too. Any happiness that our kids might experience in their lives don't* outweigh the bad. When we have a great experience, that memory is Not* as strong as a bad memory. When bad things happen to us, like a serious car accident, rape, being beaten by a bully or narcissistic family member, being severely verbally abused, being stabbed and surviving, those negative memories are Strong* and are Always Stronger than "pleasant memories" and that's why PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) is a "thing" compared to PHND (post happiness nonstress disorder) which obviously is Not* a "thing" because there's no such thing as a disorder (that I'm aware of) that causes us to constantly remember happy moments in our lives... and even if there is such a thing, PTSD is still Way More Common than a disorder that makes us constantly remember our happy memories. Also I have neighbors that own their own home and had careers but are now retired. They had two biological kids that were moderately to severely disabled from birth. Life is a crapshoot and we never know how our kids will fair. My father use to be a computer programmer and sharp as a tack. He's now the shell of his former self due to end stage prostate cancer, parkinson's and high blood pressure. He's mainly bedridden and needs help using a bedpan. He can barely remember anything. It's extremely disheartening and scary to see him whither away life this. He can't even enjoy the foods he use to love years ago. Some of my immediate family members, some relatives and myself also have serious health issues such as rare genetic disorders, other cancers, personality disorders, PTSD (from war, the military, abuse etc.) It's just something to think about. Life may be worth Continuing but is it worth Starting by having a baby?

[@Aksarallah]

if people followed ur advice, 95% of us wouldnt be here, cause almost every person having kids don't have a stable income, house. You are basically saying only the rich should have kids. Cause no day will the financial troubles of humanity solve

[@darrenlamb2277]

It is laughable that the Korean government thinks $1,600 would persuade people to want to have kids. The Korean government and society need to take a really long look in the mirror to assess the real underlying problems. Firstly, the work culture is absurd. The hours are long. The pay isn't great. The work environment is not enjoyable or one that fosters camaraderie. Additionally, working in Korea is very much like "Show up, make us money, don't question the boss's decision(s), go home when we say so." On top of everything else, employees at Korean companies have to attend periodic hoesik "회식" which refers to "work parties to build communal ties" which is all a facade of course. Even worse, while hoesik isn't "mandatory," you'll be ostracized implicitly and become a workplace pariah. Secondly, the education system is ridiculous. What's the point of school if there is an entire private sector to "supplement" a child's education? Hagwons (학원) (called "academies" or "cram schools" in English) are the most blatant form of exploitation I have ever seen in education. They're expensive as hell. Their educational principles are atrocious. Their inherent building blocks only benefit the students who have learned to study via teacher-centered, rote memorization-rooted, lecture-driven "pedagogy." Lastly, big cities in Korea (especially Seoul) are expensive as hell! How do you expect to raise a family in a studio apartment? Ultimately, what's the point of having a family in Korea? If you're too burnt out on the working environment, hoesik(s), and insane bosses, why would you want to use the limited free time and money you have to raise a child? Plus, you'd likely never see your child because you're so busy, and they're always at a hagwon because Korean society has convinced themselves that these places are "where you need to go if you want to stay ahead of the curb." In the year 2022, there is absolutely no viable reason why the current work culture still exists in Korea other than stubborn traditionalism and extremely rigid filial piety.

[@unka2007]

well said!!!! there are many benefits from govermen besides $1600 package, such as child benefit, free care centers for children run by their local government, health care reduction etc.. but the problem is , these are all focused on money.. people dont have babies because of its culture and society but the government doesnt try to change it !!

[@victoriarooks784]

The concept of the big three sounds reminiscent of how trainees try to get into big kpop companies!

[@girlbehindfood7750]

Well said 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@sittingaloneinvip]

Mic drop. 🫳🏼🎤

[@user-Ak9xh0wj]

THIS.

[@jameel2076]

From the videos I've seen on KZbin it seems more likely the reason people in Korea are not having children is due to the cost of living increasing & working extremely long hours at the workplace but with that said everyone has a legitimate reason on this topic at the end of the day

[@rodaraguz]

$2000-3000 per month to educate their child in school? That's around $30k per year. That's like a college tuition or a new car every year!! That's crazy!! Love how the guy said that the education is not making them any smarter.

[@sophiaisabelle027]

South Korea demands a lot from these young individuals. They demand so much of their time, space, money, etc to the point where it'd be far difficult for them to have their own families when the time comes. I believe the cost of living there is getting higher and there's been this inflation of prices that severely impacts an economy. South Korea's population is spiralling down under, and that's unfortunate.

[@kolpoiy1183]

As someone in their late 20s but not Korean, a lot of my friends and people around me alike, nobody is in a rush to have children or get married. It just isn’t there.

[@ddnlee24]

Personally I think this world changing for the worst and don’t want to bring children into it.

[@lwms120]

a 1% chance of your kid having a good life is still better than 0% chance

[@theking-ss]

The guy that said children can be a huge financial burden

[@nellieevans1540]

They are.

[@jjn6914]

Really thoughtful and true responses on the positive consequences of declining birthrate. If we pay close attention to the alarm that institutions and officials sound around declining birthrates, it'll behoove the masses to notice how their reasons are all economic-based; meaning they see us as sources of revenue to enrich themselves, and so they use threatening verbiage like "economic decline" to scare people into having children when in fact, we have economic and wage stagnation or decline even when there is population growth.

[@Waterbug1591]

All the women: I choose to adopt kids. Also all the women: I don't want to have kids. How to adopt with no kids to go around? 2022 Modern Woman Logic Trophy awarded.

[@zzzz44400]

@@Waterbug1591 adopt from poorer nations with higher birthrate

[@신유딧]

@@Waterbug1591 adopting is largely unpopular if a total rarity in countries like korea. Because of confucian values, though they are decreasing bit by bit, the family bloodline is a huge deal and accepting non-family blood as part of the family is hard, might cause problems with parents and grandparents too. There will always be orphanages with children, due to unwanted pregnancies ending in given up children. So really, the fact that women dont want children, and in the many cases where abortion isnt an option, these unwanted children will be sent to adoption centers.

[@attoumakidakaina3413]

We are not in pink world, economic decrease is not a joke

[@dmitriikurilov3662]

Yep, Elon Mask is worried that he will have no cheap labour force in 20 years from now 😂

[@sherrygadberryturner9527]

Being over competitive is the real problem. Expecting their children to be “top student” and the stress & money involved in achieving that is too much. So they themselves need to fix that. But like most other countries the government needs to fix the wage inequalities and probably take steps to ease housing costs.

[@meiswos7]

Life in economically excelling Asian countries is really stressful and hard. Seeing the hardship people with kids goes through is making me questioning whether or not having a child later on.

[@lovelove-jx9qt]

Yes! Plus, there is a risk the kid could have mental or physical health issues.

[@Aksarallah]

@@lovelove-jx9qt yeah let's just die cause there's a risk of poverty. same pessimistic hopeless godless logic

[@lwms120]

Send 100 people to a psychiatrist and 100 will be diagnosed with a mental health disease. Psychology is the scientific equivalent to the zodiac system @@lovelove-jx9qt

[@陈诚-i9f]

If you cant provide a good financial support for your child , it will be very selfish to have child and watch them suffer in such a fuked up society .

[@janineheyson3968]

Meanwhile, in my country (Philippines), pregnancy is treated almost like a hobby. Most parents are even using their children as retirement plans. Even taxi or tricycle drivers are urging you to get pregnant. I’m only 25 but they always say that I should get married already and have children. Naaah, in this economy? No thanks. 😬

[@fuzzytree4717]

So basically the Korean government, like most other governments, treat their population as a source of labour and little else. Sounds like we, or at least the younger generations, are waking up to the fact that the common people are being treated like machines to produce output without proper consideration of what makes a healthy and sustainable life.

[@proximamidnight1581]

Welcome to capitalism baby!

[@VS-mu8mk]

@Brandon live at home and loans, loans, loans.

[@nellieevans1540]

Precisely. South Korea (as well as many other countries) keeps pushing people to have kids simply because they need more future tax payers, cheap labours, wage slaves, and probably more males to die in war, nothing else. It's an evil propaganda to begin with. We 80% are just tools to keep the top 20% stay wealthy.

[@michaellim4165]

The education system needs an major, major, MAJOR overhaul. The sheer amount of competition strictly based on academic grades, a literal life and death decisions hangs in the balance and young students future, SOLELY based on school grades. The amount of pressure to have their own children succeed within this highly competitive academic landscape only further compounds the competition by having secondary after school programs touting successes for their children, which is yet another layer of financial burden on top of everything else on the minds of the parents. We can place less emphasis on school work with more emphasis on applications, evaluating what each students strengths and weaknesses are through testing. Then we can start placing them in development areas to further build their strengths. Basically expanding vocational schools with less emphasis on colleges and universities. Changing the culture and discrimination associated with trade jobs because they provide essential skills and responsibilities to run a society. Government intervention needs to be limited as to how much they can and are willing to support because nobody wants huge increases in taxes to support a system that they themselves won't participate in.

[@unka2007]

fully agreed

[@ianhomerpura8937]

True. How can students even have social lives, date, and all, if all of their lives as kids they're geared for just one goal: to pass the suneung.

[@Waterbug1591]

All the women: I choose to adopt kids. Also all the women: I don't want to have kids. How to adopt with no kids to go around? 2022 Modern Woman Logic Trophy awarded.

[@ianhomerpura8937]

@@Firecourt regarding the cost of education, that seems to be very true. Studying at Yonsei costs around $6,000 per semester. That's way too expensive.

[@pitchaiimran8485]

Most Korean parents have no choice but to invest heavily into their children’s education. Korean economy runs on manufacturing. The majority of its GDP comes from manufacturing. Unlike German/Japanese/American engineering, Korean manufacturing is usually not bleeding edge technology (with the exception of semiconductor). As a result, the Korean economy can provide only so many high paying jobs. It simply isn’t competitive enough. Plus, it’s economy will most likely decline due to intense competition from China and the US. As a result, most parents have no choice but to push their children to become either doctors, engineers or lawyers.

[@longhairfen]

I didn't know SoKor has "no kid zones". That's sad. In the Philippines many businesses put up "child-friendly" signs to attract families.

[@KoreanBeauty1985]

I wouldn’t raise kids in Korea because of the extreme education system it really harsh and super stressful my aunt is a high school teacher it’s hell and torturous for kids

[@yoleeisbored]

Definitely need to change the education system over there.. make it more relaxed, no more hogwans (though people will lose jobs), easier grading system,

[@minhchaubuingoc8384]

@@yoleeisbored grading system is not the problem. It’s the competition. Only so many can be selected, that’s why they make it hard. If everyone pass, how are they supposed to decide who get the better stuff? The problem is like what the white shirt guy said, there’s not enough of anything. That’s why people have to fight each other to gain the better position

[@KoreanBeauty1985]

@@yoleeisbored I wouldn’t mind moving back to Korea temporarily until middle school take them to America it’s a perfect age for them they will be fluent in korean I moved to America when I was 3 so I basically focus on English and when I was older I took korean lessons but school in America is less stressful except high school the S.A.T was scary huge thing your fate

[@mithos789]

playing life on easy mode. good choice.

[@missmystery22]

We have a huge Korean community in Australia and many people migrate here just to raise a family. I can’t imagine having children with such space limitations.

[@missmystery22]

@@Banana_917 too much pressure on people. Which is so sad because Koreans are spectacularly nice people and shouldn’t feel that way.

[@bmona7550]

@@Banana_917 Sadly it is quite common in ultra strict monoethnic societies. Not as adaptable..

[@Flaginafingies]

@@UnstableYT-u7k sadly that happens in alot of countries way more then people usually think off

[@Waterbug1591]

All the women: I choose to adopt kids. Also all the women: I don't want to have kids. How to adopt with no kids to go around? 2022 Modern Woman Logic Trophy awarded.

[@sb8095]

@@UnstableYT-u7k no that's not true at all

[@Feyisay0-]

The lady in black round neck and face mask really speaks well,everyone of them speaks well tho,but that lady really gave me the points I was looking for. Raising a child without money is a burden to both parents and children, My childhood trauma always making me to think if I'm gonna give birth even though am not Korean, This is what everyone should always consider, stop giving birth when you can't really afford housing or any amenities.

[@aajohnsoutube]

04:30 what she says rings true everywhere. My kids will probably never be able to live as well as they do now - especially not with a family to consider. Not really a surprise at this point though

[@ramjam6934]

the cost of living is going up everywhere though. Its definitely too late for the birth rate to go back up but all the people interviewed made good points about not having kids you can't afford, that is better than the opposite.

[@victoriarooks784]

They talking about only giving 2,000 this year why not do it for extended period of time?! I swear they don't t think!

[@ramjam6934]

@@attoumakidakaina3413 whatever you want

[@attoumakidakaina3413]

@@ramjam6934 that’s what your saying

[@ramjam6934]

@@attoumakidakaina3413 yes and no

[@SidMajors]

My 2 cents about the competetiveness in some Asian cultures: I rather be the best in a lower education job, than having to constantly struggle to be or stay on top in higher education jobs. Plumbers, barbers and construction workers have an important job in this society too. Without them, it would fall apart. Probably more so than being without sales managers. Think about that for a second and then decide what you want in life.

[@mobeyond]

in East Asian culture, there is no place for plumbers, barbers, or construction workers, these jobs are normally considered low end, no dignity, badly paid, and not for educated people. The cruel part of east Asian culture, is to get glory and dignity, you must become someone big, meanwhile, in real world, most of us has be ordinary people...... and you don't want your children to be another ordinary people .......

[@Libbidybibbidy]

So many factors: declining quality of life, climate change, economic futures, overpopulation, crony capitalism. My generation understands that life is full of suffering/constant striving and older generations try to brainwash us into adding company to the misery.

[@sari9645]

@Mr.Beant But you need to think about the quality of life your children will have. Having children is a selfish decision and one that should be thought over carefully especially in this day and age

[@proximamidnight1581]

It’s just capitalism. Crony capitalism is not a thing.

[@sb8095]

@Mr.Beant they don't

[@nellieevans1540]

​@Mr.Beant All the psychopaths, serial killers, school shooters, pedophiles, rapists, drug dealers, corrupted politicians were once "kids that make people happy". Go seek therapy or get a hobby instead of subjecting a child into this messed up world just because you need some entertainment.

[@Freedomoverdose]

Correct me if I m wrong. S Korea with low birth rate , but at the same time with high suicide rate??man.. that's messed up

[@unka2007]

it all comes from “ competitive and comparing culture” thats messed up for sure :(

[@JayJay-st1jj]

Yeah they seem to have many issues with bullying too. Very messed up

[@societybye7166]

Double whammy

[@limaorosinha]

Alto índice de suicídio pq a pressão é dms,aluguel caríssimo,disputa no trabalho ,na escola,na financeira,magreza e estética excessiva, então os jovens querem ser melhor e tentar buscar a beleza padronizada,quem se sente menos ,se mata.🌚🌚

[@lmaoitsover]

I live in Korea for 10 plus years. It's not a matter of it actually being to expensive to raise children in Korea (in fact it's pretty cheap and comparable to many European countries, even cheaper than the US overall). It's a matter of them overspending on things they don't need, like after school programs, materialism, post partum care centers, luxury cars. They do all this because otherwise they will feel judged by their friends / neighbors / peers. It's a deeply rooted cultural issue that Koreans love to complain about, but never take individual steps to fix themselves. See how many expecting mothers think you're crazy because you think spending money on a post partum care center is a waste of money, or how many people think your child will fall behind in education because you decide it's better not to waste a ton of money on after school programs and would rather save that money to send them abroad to study later in university. It's a deeply rooted cultural flaw that they're dealing with, yet blaming it on the state of the economy (even though the economy could be better). If you suddenly gave every Korean a good house to live in, they wouldn't magically decide to have children. So the housing crisis is just a small part of the entire cake that won't magically solve itself. It's more of a mindset issue, and the need to always show off to people next to you. If you provide your child with essentials for life, nice vacations here and there like the average European family, you can easily raise children in Korea - but they're stuck with always trying to cater to society. EVEN if your child gets the best grades and graduates one of the top universities, a comfortable lifestyle is not guaranteed, many mid size to smaller companies in Korea are just as good, not to mention you'll have the opportunity to go abroad. The concept of reaching for the top of the top is outdated and doesn't make sense mathematically speaking, it's impossible for everyone to get the prize, when the prize is actually horrible mold but roleplaying as pot of gold. If the end result is not worth it, why even bother? Just let your kids have a childhood and stop overspending and worrying about what others think. Only then can Korean society solve its birth rate crisis.

[@lovecharlesbarkley7768]

와 나의 생각과 일치합니다.

[@lmaoitsover]

@@lovecharlesbarkley7768 그래요? 이렇게 생각하는 한국분들이 계시다니 행복하네요^^

[@lovecharlesbarkley7768]

@@lmaoitsover 쓰신 글을 아이를 가르치거나 키우는 모든 한국인이 봤으면 합니다.

[@fred6070]

I agree. It's like a endless competition. Korean are obssessed with that their education, house and car even stroller should better than other people

[@heidilam1978]

@@lovecharlesbarkley7768 아니 근데 솔까 한국이 30~40년전만 해도 엄청 가난했는데 그때는 오히려 아기를 훨씬 많이 낳았고 지금 현재 한국은 생활수준, 경제수준이 유럽, 미국이랑 비교해도 후달리지 않고 오히려 인프라는 더 좋은데도 나라 경제가 어려워서 애를 못낳는다... 라고 하는건 좀 핑계로 들림. 진짜로 나라경제가 엉망이라서 아이를 안낳는게 아니라 솔직히 말하면 그냥 눈이 엄청 높아져서 기준도 엄청 올라간게 가장 큰 이유일듯. 그리고 애 키울려고 몸, 마음 희생하기도 싫어하는 이유도 있겠고..

[@polaris1985]

Its a developed world problem everywhere and not just for koreans, I havent recovered the amount of money spent on me by my parents for food, cloths and education in 10 years of my job, if a country wants more children then they need to reduce below points 1) Provide cheap day care for child(for both working parents) 2) Cheap cost of education from kindergarden to college. ( yearly costs should be only 10% of yearly parents salary)

[@eduardosotelo4663]

Maybe if you don't buy iPhone, don't buy expensive cars, don't travel, don't eat ou. Don't use air conditioning.

[@sashaa_pp]

i'm korean and was born and raised in France, don't want kids because i can't be a mom and have a career, it's really hard, lets be honest, and I don't plan to count on a my boyfriend/husband, who know what's going to happen, every mom who never worked in their life can't divorce their abusive husband because they never work its too late for them, don't want to be like hers and I want to live for myself and be independant. But to be honest it's sad I have the feeling we lost trust in our partners, we can't face hardship like our parents, grandparents... we want everything and we are never happy, always want more, and it scary me sometimes.

[@thetunafromsupertuna2169]

that's so true. my aunt has been stuck in an abusive relationship for 29 years with a man who dragged her by the hair through the courtyard of their house days after their marriage. and the abuse is still going on. and she was never allowed to get a job. just married off to this monster and have three kids. she can't do anything but depend on him for sustenance for herself and her kids. she keeps saying she'll divorce him only after she can ensure that he'll properly marry off her daughters and when her son gets a decent job so she can depend on them instead of him. there are countless women like her who are stuck in marriages like these and it's honestly horrible to think about what kind of situations these traditional gender roles can push people into

[@sdfsdfsdfsdf9966]

Just dont meet people like that?

[@frogiwthoutahat]

it's strange because men are becoming much less abusive and kind towards their partners, so many of them going to therapy, and we still don't trust them. maybe it will take many generations

[@planningandtravelling]

Nicely done. Such an interesting group of interviewees with intelligent opinions to share

[@UkuClub2023]

I'm turning 30 and not yet married. I think our generation is too busy in improving our career. We want enough money to sustain living.

[@anhho1997]

I think it’s a combination of many reasons. The Korean society is very competitive. Korean women and men alike focus more on career which means they get married much later so women tend to have baby at much older age, therefore having less children than 50 or 60 years ago. Also as the society develop and general public’s knowledge increase, people start to think about responsibility. Now you don’t only think of having enough money to feed your child but you need to at least have enough so your child will be able to experience and live a better life. In the past, people have children because they’re someone you can depend on when you get older. Now parents have to be responsible and support for their children financially even in their 20s or 30s due to job insecurity, rise in housing price yet children might not be able to look after them when they get older.

[@sophia-annsmith9277]

In addition the Korean society is very patriarchial, approximately over 85% of the work related to parenting is left to the woman. The woman loses big time should she become a parent her life is about over so its not surprising that not being a parent is a better option. She is looked on as a pariah for having the audacity to become pregnant and wanting maternity leave from work, they say its best she quit etc. Two of the guests said interesting things (1) Korea is not a place suitable for raising children as it is (2) the environment of the country needs to change for people to want to have children. If these are not addressed there will be no change to the existing issue, money is not enough to solve the issue. I even read somewhere that they plan to penalise people via tax for not having children. That would worsen the matter. The government to me are not creating feasible solutions but making it worse, this can lead to more Koreans wanting to migrate to other countries more child and culture friendly to them.

[@slimjim4ever]

I’m a Korean American in 40s married with 2 kids. As a military child I grew up in Korea & USA moving every 2-3 years so I was able to observe and learn 2 different cultures. Most of my relatives lives in Korea & most of them around my age are married with kids but most of my highschool friends don’t have kids & a lot of them aren’t even married. Funny thing is most of those who don’t have kids are actually financially much more stable than the ones with kids. I asked one of my friend jokingly, why don’t you move out of Gangnam for a while and sell some of your cars and live “poorly” for a while? His reply was… that’s gonna damage my reputation forever! In my opinion it’s not purely financial burden but people’s mindset that’s preventing people from having kids.

[@TrinhNguyen-sh4fj]

Money is just a part of it and yes, it is the mindset that is the bigger problem.

[@우하하-g5c]

The problem is that these people's mindset is very socially spread. This is seen as a social structural problem. It is not about one individual, but about the fact that a national group has this idea.

[@theking-ss]

The girl that talked about adoption is probably spot on in her analysis

[@pietersmal5903]

I agree. The education system is not working. Endless competition is killing everyone! :(

[@brelove1414]

just want to take a second to appreciate asian boss for providing excellent content to intermediate & advanced learners of asian languages. having content that focuses on heavier topics but is so clear and high quality is extremely valuable. so thank you!

[@polaris1985]

I'm in India and at 37 age unmarried, everyone annoys me by asking when I will get married and have children, India is 100 years behind South Korea.

[@linaamuliah7513]

Same here in indonesia. I'm 27 y.o unmarried woman and l have questioned a lot about even some people already labeled me as a leftover but l don't feel that way l feel l'm still young l still want to persue my dream and maybe l will think about married when l'm in my 30s l wish l was born in another country so l don't have to be pressured by this crazy mindset. (Sorry for my english)

[@purplegalaxy94]

So true! Sometimes, even when we are in age 24 or 25 (specially, woman)they will start ask the question 'When will you get Married?'😵😵 It's really annoying...

[@nuggetsss2526]

Life is so stressful already without a child. Who would want kids

[@nellieevans1540]

Government. Because they need more future tax payers, cheap labors and wage slaves, anything to keep the top 1% stay wealthy.

[@eduardosotelo4663]

A lgtb leftist pro a abortion wilth no brain they don't want children. But foreign Muslims living in Korea they will.

[@eggegg8181]

100% agree.

[@attoumakidakaina3413]

Not selfish human

[@mithos789]

the muslims will invade these countries. only old geezers will be left that cant defend their land.

[@frogiwthoutahat]

I think one of the real issues is that people have the least amount of money when they're young, and the most when they're older. If somehow the government were to distribute wealth to young people such that they have the most wealth when they're younger, if they have kids it would be a much smaller burden. no one wants to retire destitute and dependent on the government. they could take away your social security checks at any time

[@enricojr6541]

Everybody's response was immaculate and raises some great ground points to learn from. Great work Asian Boss👏👏👏

[@vk-yj2es]

Seeing how cruel human's are turning,no wonder people in general don't feel safe to have kids.

[@mithos789]

humans have always been cruel. look up jamestown

[@irawilliams343]

It's hard to raise a child these days and motherhood isn't for everyone

[@njoy4406]

As a foreigner living in korea for the past 14 years , lower birth rates is becoming an issue recently due to the pressure of raising children itself. Parenting is difficult because we still see the stereotypes of gender responsibilities of a father and a mother. Mothers give up their careers once they get pregnant and start their way to raise the child while fathers work overtime. Secondly, financial stability for marriage, daily living, education, and health and insurances and taxes are way too high. Younger generation just want to enjoy life and just want to have light responsibilities and seek for men who are more financially stable to keep up with the society "elites" who has the freedom to afford anything they wish and travel to different places.

[@Eskayzeee]

Omg same herr in Japan 😢there is no way you can work while taking care of the kids. From the bento prep every morning to all the school accessories for one day of schooling, it is terribly tiring. I hope the system changes. I remember those days in England, kids go to school with simple bags and light heart. Here, the bags are heavy, the hearts too getting heavier especially to the parent

[@Hotcheetos777]

whoa didn't you hear the interviewee where the girl said that there's very little women who actually want to be a stay at home housewife as a career? Korean women don't "seek for men who are more financially stable". Sure, they don't want to marry a dude who's in debt, but that doesn't mean they're gold diggers.

[@MissRayneNerdiiChicK]

@@Hotcheetos777 Seeking a man who is financially stable is not being a gold digger, it's being wise. Women should always seek for a man who is financially stable if they wish to marry and perhaps start a family in this patriarchal world where men rule(get the most opportunities etc.). It would be foolish to do otherwise, especially in a cut throat society like Korea. Even with this, I completely agree with Korean women choosing not to marry or have kids. Not only do they have to deal with the financial issues, but they are also treated horribly by Korean men/government AND do not get justice for what they face(domestic violence, r*pe, sexual harassment, workplace discrimination etc.). The government should be forced to step in and make drastic changes to the way criminals are punished (much harsher sentencing to make it safer for: women, children, the elderly, and the poor) and make HUGE changes in the education system/make raising kids affordable and beneficial.

[@Lily_faith227]

HARDLY ANYONE WANTS A KID. I DO NOT WANT A CHILD.

[@mithos789]

the future belongs to the kids. islam will probably dominate the world.

[@m.o4936]

they think about it too much they have a very wealthy society and saying that they can't afford a child is not true my country is considered poor and people still have 2-3 children per household at least. if you aren't too materialistic and focus on your and your child's basic needs then there won't be a problem financially. but I think people in Korea are looking for an unreasonably high life standard. plus they have no consideration for their culture's preservation, if it continues like this it won't be long before koreans will no longer exist.

[@lmaoitsover]

I live in Korea and you are 100% correct. It's not a matter of it actually being to expensive to raise children in Korea, it's a matter of them overspending on things they don't need. They believe their child needs to attend hagwon (after school programs) for example to get good grades and stuff, but this does not equal in better opportunities or an increase in intelligence overall. It's a deeply rooted cultural flaw that they're dealing with, but blaming it on economy(even though the economy could be better). It's comical.

[@minimin1250]

I hope society moves more in this way where we're not pushed to do something just because the masses do it too, whoever wants a family can have it but if you deep in your soul don't want to then is okay to not do it, a quiet easy life with no major responsibilities is equally valid as a wife/husband and four kids. Whatever your heart desires but with honesty.

[@penguin902]

You need human beings to have a functioning society/country that will last. You NEED a certain percentage of people to have a family or else you'll have problems in the long run.

[@dziankolack9331]

@@penguin902 sure but I think op is just saying that a lot of people are negative to those who say they don’t want kids

[@bmona7550]

@@life_is_a_myth No the problem in East Asia has more to do with their culture’s tradition of hard work and their strict expectations. That’s more on collectivism

[@minimin1250]

@@penguin902 I've never said I want a human extinction dude, calm down. An overpopulated world is equally dangerous and unbalanced than one where people is missing but still we keep overpopulating it so this are goods news for kow at least. Besides that I'm talking about the social pressure to have kids cause that's the goal and how if you don't want to do what everyone does then you're from selfish to evil. It wasn't that hard.

[@minimin1250]

@@life_is_a_myth I don't think is mainly individualism when the analysis of people who don't want kids is more general, social, economic and even philosophical than plane selfishness as many pro kids as a life goal put it.

[@Chuck8541]

All these people saying how expensive it is…cuz they want to maintain their lifestyle in a major world city, like Seoul. For the sake of your mental health, finances, and quality of life, get out of big cities. You’ll be much happier, the cost of living will be lower, and you can work for LESS money, while affording MORE things. Governments CAN offer economic incentives with stipulations like, here’s 2k to have a kid (which is nothing and laughable in a major city), but you have to live in certain areas outside of major cities. In reality 2k isn’t much anywhere, but you get the picture. Money for a family - especially economic incentives from the government, will go much further in rural areas. This would allow the government to offer the incentives, or increase them, to more people. This concept of moving to cities to prosper isn’t new, but for the first time in history, the cities aren’t places of prosperity anymore. It’s too expensive to get regular transportation, to have decent accommodations, and to eat. Couple these issues with toxic always on, argumentative, and censored social media - that constantly shows how good and amazing life is - makes people miserable, and not want to have kids. I disagree with the current phrase, ‘get out and touch grass’. Because all people do now, is go out to a park, and scroll on their phones. What’s the positive point in that? I prefer the term, ‘get out of the cities, and get off your phone - as much as possible’.

[@davidkrall1046]

In the end, this is all about sacrifice and the willingness to support the future. My experiences, suggest that younger folks want to maintain a certain life style and aren't willing to sacrifice to support a family.

[@umarjongi3590]

Exactly, specially women.

[@azanterose6526]

One reason could be is if someone has been unrealisticlly & constantly criticised by own family while growing up & continuing in adult life for not ever being good enough or able to look after themselves despite that persons attempts &/or achieving steps to overcome theses difficulties can deter someone from wanting a family. A constant thinking of not being good enough becomes that person always thinking they will never be able to be a good parent, despite having good intentions & morals.

[@ankomitarashi-488]

Agreed with all of their points. It's not just one thing that's making everyone not want to have children - there's always been reasons to not have kids, but when several things are stacked up against it, of course people are going to be more adamantly against it.

[@alexleung842]

It's a problem common across the entire developed world right now

[@sn350channel]

No. Not in the US and Europe.

[@nataliegrn17]

Exactly

[@-Random_Games-]

@@sn350channel United Sates and europe is getting refilled by immigrants everytime

[@-Random_Games-]

@@sn350channel also just look at datas bro united states birth rate is dropping too

[@fedyx1544]

@@sn350channel tf are you saying, most European countries are below replacement rate already, and the US is basically only propped up by immigration.

[@puan.berjalan]

I don't want to have a kid as well. I live in Indonesia and I don't feel safe to raise children in Indonesia. I think it's common in whole world to feel unsafe about the future. Now it's hard to have proper life as single, everything expensive, spouse doesn't have vision to raise children in better environment, zero supports from surroundings and bad patriarchy culture makes women tired. I believe if citizen got a lot of support (mentally, physically, money), birth rate will increase again.

[@mydhy]

Tapi kalo di Indo punya keputusan kaya gitu bakal dicibir sih. Kejadian sama saya. Ada aja yang bilang, besok kalo tua mau ikut siapa? Klo sakit siapa yang bakal jagain? Dan saya jadi berpikir, jadi gak tulus sayang sama anaknya. Karena gedein anak sebab ada maunya.

[@puan.berjalan]

@@mydhy udah kok. Biar aja hahah. Nanti kalo kita yg susah, mereka pura2 ga tau.

[@nadeshiko10100]

Sesama childfree :D aku se7 bangettt

[@angelsis2222]

13:00 this woman is the wisest one ive seen. She would be a great mother, but her reasons for not having a kid is completely reasonable and true. I feel the same exact way as her. Im not against kids, but id only have kids once Im older, achieved what I wanted to and make enough money to support the kid. Its so unfair for the kid to be born into a poor family who cant even afford basic necessities.

[@michellesimmons2756]

It's so ironic right? Those who don't want to have kids due to sensible reasons are usually those who would be good parents

[@linaamuliah7513]

I wish this will happen to indonesian people too. Here people always rush other to get married soon and have kid without considering financial stability and l'm sick of it. Please make same interview with indonesian people

[@shqip_sumejja]

A low birth rate has many issues such as lack of workforce but I think a high birth rate has worse long term effects

[@pournavjayan2770]

like what?

[@dfg1999]

Expectations and competitions: these two are nothing more than illusions As a Korean person, I think many Koreans choose complicated lifestyles just to meet others' expectations

[@Carlton_Banks]

This is a serious problem for S.Korea, 0.81 is insanely low, especially since they literally have a hostile country up North and an ambiguous one just west.

[@bmona7550]

China actually has a low birth rate. They’re economy Is projected to go down over time because of the effects of the one child policy

[@fedyx1544]

@@bmona7550 Economic decline doesn't mean a country's collapse. Just cause their GDP may take a hit it doesn't mean their ambiguity towards SK or their extreme military power will change. They would still be a potential threat to Korea. I'm not a China basher, far from it, but I'm able to see the situation from the Korean perspective.

[@jk-gn2fu]

Having less children is the last resistance against the rich.

[@stevenjon1347]

Less meat for the grinder.

[@hyunwhanjoe3477]

Honestly I think its an outdated idea that its a person's duty to society to get married and give birth to children. And the fact that society/politicians try to gaslight people that go against this as being selfish makes this even more apparent.

[@attoumakidakaina3413]

Your parents should have use candom

[@hyunwhanjoe3477]

@@attoumakidakaina3413 Condoms can also help prevent accidents like you from being born. If you're going to reply can you at least be a bit more creative

[@asmr4424]

As a foreigner who lives in Korea now. I think the main reason are time and money. Children needs time and attention and on top, everything is expensive in Korea. You can consider marriage but having kids need a lot of thinking.

[@bleepbloop7039]

its not just korea, japan and china, much of europe is the same, its becoming a world wide phenomenon

[@cris_here]

Exactly

[@dwade3202]

Who would think that if you raise prices of everything by 600% and wages stay the same while work is exhausting, people wouldnt wanna have kids huh its a mystery. On the other hand there are trillionaire companies now, so its a win amirite

[@proximamidnight1581]

That’s because capitalism is worldwide.

[@shaniceokubena4975]

@@life_is_a_myth places where the cost of living is comparatively low and extended family help raise the children

[@paulromero2937]

@@life_is_a_myth mmm in latam yes

[@AleksG_0509]

I support nearly everything that the people in this video said. I live in Germany and I´ve been married for two years now, I´m nearing my 30s now and I´m still very reluctant to have children. The problem is, it´s very very expensive, so why would I have a child or children and barely be able to support them and meet their basic needs. So I don´t think it´s a problem that´s exclusive to Korea but to many countries all over the world.

[@spidermonkey8430]

But in Countries like Niger ppl have 7+ kids even though they can’t afford them

[@SodiumSyndicate]

You are almost INFERTILE as a female if you are nearing 30. Females are at peak fertility in early to mid 20s ONLY. After which giving birth gets difficult & chances of birth defects & low quality children increases exponentially.

[@AleksG_0509]

@@SodiumSyndicate females? Low quality children?... late 20s/early 30s is a perfectly fine time to have children too, it gets difficult past 35ish

[@SodiumSyndicate]

@@AleksG_0509 Nope. Women lose 90% of their eggs by 29-30 & that is if they had puberty at the right at around 14-16 - NOT EARLIER. Essentially your fertility begins 5 years after puberty & peaks by 10 years after puberty & almost ends around 15 years after puberty. Girls who are s3xually aroused at a young age start producing Oxytocin (love hormone) & Prolactin (milk hormone) & trigger early puberty thanks to s3xualized society, media, movies, music, culture, p0rn etc. Early puberty in girls also triggers early infertility & high chance of defective kids as well as br3ast cancer & uterus cancer. Well, women get br3ast cancer if they do not have kids before 30 & lactate fully by feeding their kids. That is the MAIN cause of br3ast cancer. Yet women are at the forefront of self-destruction trying to act like men. Women are their OWN WORST ENEMIES.

[@AleksG_0509]

@@SodiumSyndicate dude, the main reason for breast cancer is definitely not that, wth. Let's just let this conversation be, have yourself a great day

[@naritoto]

The girl at 9:41 super impressive. Her smart and mature way of thinking are admirable.

[@tmm6884]

Having fewer children is quickly becoming the norm. I think people finally realize how expensive it is to have children, coupled with the fact that societal structures are lessening which means people are making the best decisions for themselves. It's called progress.

[@tmm6884]

@@life_is_a_myth Citation? I dare you.

[@sideriteadamantium4300]

@@tmm6884 Society will collapse in 100 years without children. You are asking for the destruction of your society and your bloodline. How is this "progress"?

[@TrinhNguyen-sh4fj]

Yes, most of the people I know have only one or 2 at most but no more than that.

[@tmm6884]

@Rusty Dusty I'm sure plenty of government officials have a more complex understanding of government. That said, you do not.

[@knzafir]

Progress for the people but not the country. A stable birth rate really important for a country. Do i need to read you Human resource 101 ?

[@per_growth]

I believe most countries are facing the same issue. In 2024, the Philippine's birth rate is down to 2.75 (the 'breakeven point' for maintaining current population is 2.1) - this was as high as 8 in the 1950's. If you can't provide proper care, education and future for children - then it really makes sense not to have them.

[@TatsumiOga682]

Korean Lady : "I haven't thought much about having kids yet" **proceeds to talk in detail about the social, economical, financial and biological impact of having kids**

[@MiCasa23]

i think Korean people had made their lives tough themselves by tough competition in every field... everyone wants to be No. 1 no matter what.. and their lives has become materialistic...having good grades, lot of money or success is not the only purpose of life

[@Pau_Pau9]

I went to a Korean wedding recently. Parking lot was filled with Lexus, Audi, Porsche, etc. What is wrong with everyday car?..

[@claireylanan1307]

i wonder why a lot of koreans lives in seoul or any urban cities. why cant they just relocate to provinces. where it wil be more cheaper and able to grow their own foods and vegetables. government of korea should decentralized the business landscape so that even in provinces people can still have a job and relocate other government agencies. if koreans minimize the idea of being succesful is what really matters then bearing a child is possible

[@bedrock6443]

All the jobs are in urban areas. The way in which the country is structured is that of a functional region. Everything is organized around Seoul. All the jobs, major schools, and places of recreation are present there. So many people move there. Rural areas are present but all of the rural areas are places in which some jobs are available but not many. Many relocate to cities like Seoul for that reason. The government has to encourage businesses to go to more rural areas.

[@michaellim4165]

14:40 he thinks there are so many people because he is in Seoul, where 50%, yes 50%, of the ENTIRE POPULATION of South Korea lives. It's not overpopulation, it's population living in concentrated area. People need to spread out and one of the fastest way of doing that is to expand the high speed rail network and public transportation system so that cost of living, concentration and economic activity is spread out and less concentrated. Also, economic opportunities needs to be expanded to more than the core elitists. Major incentives needs to be established that favor small to medium businesses in accessing capital and resources so that they can flourish with economic activity. South Korea's highly concentrated activities among the large chaebol business groups must be broken down. These opportunities must be distributed to a wider population.

[@katerinafeiglova7886]

I don't agree. I am living in an European country that is roughly the same size as South Korea. While we have 10 mil. inhabitants (that is 136 inh. / km²), they have 51 mil (492 inh. / km²). That is ovepopulation to me.

[@michaellim4165]

@@katerinafeiglova7886 Now imagine 50 % of all that people concentrated in one metroplex. Thats overpopulation in a limited area.

[@ucchau173]

@@michaellim4165 real population in seoul is just 10 million people. Metro seoul is different thing ,it includes alot of province near seoul...

[@Yang_Mulia]

its not only korea, japan & us also facing the same problem, i think it's some kind of post economic booming problem it's happen several decades after some country having economic booming i bet in several decades china will be next

[@-Random_Games-]

People are getting picky and have higher expectations... also education etc.

[@d.n.8919]

When they talk about "education costs" they are talking about "cram schools" --students in East Asia go to private tutoring centers after regular school until 8 or 9 at night in order to get an edge...except almost everyone does it and it's considered necessary to succeed.

[@katerinafeiglova7886]

In my opinion, this has nothing to do with the cost of raising children as such. I live in a European country where I would say the benefits are pretty good - the medical care is free, the schools are free, the maternity leave is paid for 3 years, having children means having social benefits (such as lower taxes, earlier pensions), and so on. I can't imagine our government doing more actually. The thing is that having children means losing your status. Yes, it does cost money, but it has always been like that. Even during the war, you had to have money to provide clothes, food, and a house for your child. But it is easier to give up money when you have next to nothing. Also, it is easier to give up your everyday life when you are 18, freshly out of school not knowing what is to come. Nowadays people are used to living in luxury almost, they can afford an abundance of things, they can travel, enjoy their free time in any way, they can eat even when they are not hungry and their wardrobes are full of clothes they do not even wear. And in this situation having children means sacrificing this, giving up part of your status, becoming poorer, to give up your hobbies. I am not sure this is something the government can really help with. After all, even when testing on animals, their society started to crumble at the time of the abundance.

[@revathibacsa]

In France, a lot of chidren are born. So, the encouragement by the govt works- especially tax benefits that jump when you have a third child. So married couples have 3 that compensates for the unmarried.

[@katerinafeiglova7886]

@@revathibacsa 1,87 is nothing to be proud of and it is definitely not "a lot". It still means the population is declining since it doesn't qualify as a replacement fertility rate (which starts at 2,1).

[@granjadelsur3935]

As an Asian woman in Scandinavia, I concur! Economic freedom and the luxury of me-time trumps above and beyond reproduction.

[@nellieevans1540]

"having children means losing your status"? What planet are you living on? Society is so pro-natalist that it literally puts parents on pedestal. Parents and children are constantly being worshipped and get lots of benefits and privileges that childless/childfree people don't get.

[@granjadelsur3935]

@@ab-hv8qs Guess you don't even live here. My job entails dealing with old people and I can tell you having children isn't a guarantee that children will be there for their ageing parents 100% of the time. You know why? Adult children have their own challenges too. Marital problems, job insecurity, health problems, seriously ill kids to name a few. And you expect children will pay their filial duty just because you're the parent? The old people I talk to are self-reliant and understand that their children have their own lives to deal with. Fortunately my Asian parents are the same.

[@helenafuertes4803]

If you read "Kim YI-Young, Born in 1982" you can get a better understanding on why Korean women are reluctant to form families: historically and culturally it's been a great disadvantage for them and it's only normal they want to preserve themselves, their rights, dreams and lives.

[@Bllackstaarr]

thank you, it's been forgotten on my reading list for a long time but maybe now is the time to bring it out :)

[@Dddd-ko2xn]

Yes, actually young SK women do not want to suffer as their mothers did. I do not want to cook meals&do house works&raise children and work at the same time like my mother did. I just want to just pursue my career, earn a lot of money, and spend that money on myself and my parents.

[@DanLee8884]

I am surprise this lack of baby stat when, for what I know, every holiday revolves around having a date in Korea. While the government benefits provided for people with children is enticing, the overall pressures of work standards and education is a turn off. I wouldnt want my child to live through that.

[@xxnike0629xx]

There definitely is issues with things like gender arguing over socio-political issues. There is also issues of people considering the opportunity cost of having children versus being able to enjoy their own lives. So really, I think most of the issue & reason is the cost. The economy is general isn't the best and not as conducive to having children let alone getting married. Does South Korea's government really think a 1 time payment of $2000 is enough? Really? 😐 I'm pretty sure they government could afford to do a lot more if they're really serious about tackling the declining birth rate. They can give more money, and make laws that make it more conducive for couples to get married and have children.