Major Social Issues and Changes in Korea in 2024

Low Birth Rate and Population Decline

The low birth rate is one of the most serious social issues Korea faces. Korea's birth rate remains the lowest in the world, staying below 1 in 2024. This could lead to a shortage of labor, slow economic growth, and increase the burden on the pension and social welfare systems. Although the government is strengthening pro-natalist policies, high childcare costs, housing problems, and difficulties in balancing work and family life continue to hinder birth rate recovery.

The low birth rate is not just about population decline, but it has far-reaching effects on society. For example, while competition in the labor market may decrease as the younger generation shrinks, the social burden on the youth will increase due to the rising elderly population. Therefore, the low birth rate issue requires long-term policy support and changes in social awareness, rather than short-term solutions.

Major Social Issues and Changes in Korea in 2024

Aging Society and Welfare Issues

Along with low birth rates, an aging society is another major issue Korea is facing. As of 2024, Korea has entered a super-aged society, with the proportion of people aged 65 and older continuing to grow. Aging imposes a significant burden on the welfare system, including healthcare, pensions, and long-term care, and can lead to intergenerational conflicts.

The aging issue goes beyond welfare systems and demands structural changes across society. For instance, providing jobs for the elderly, strengthening healthcare systems, and fostering intergenerational communication are necessary policy efforts. It is also important to ensure that older adults are not excluded from the labor market and can continue economic activities.

Youth Unemployment and Job Issues

Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge in Korean society. With a high rate of highly educated individuals, many young people invest considerable time in finding jobs, but struggle to find positions that meet their expectations in the labor market. The increase in non-regular jobs, employment instability, and the gap between small and large companies are representative issues facing young people.

In addition to job problems, young people face difficulties in housing, marriage, and childbirth. These issues are interconnected, and without addressing the underlying social inequality, improving the quality of life for young people will be difficult. The government and businesses need to create more practical job opportunities, along with strengthening housing support and welfare systems for young people.

Climate Change and Environmental Protection

Climate change is a critical global issue, and Korea is no exception. Problems such as fine dust, abnormal weather, and marine pollution are key environmental challenges that Korean society is facing. As of 2024, Korea is pursuing policies like phasing out coal and expanding renewable energy, but it is still criticized for lacking environmental awareness.

Climate change is not just an environmental issue but also has significant economic and social impacts. For instance, abnormal weather can reduce agricultural productivity, destroy marine ecosystems, and exacerbate urban heat island effects, all of which directly affect people's quality of life. Thus, not only the government but also civil society and businesses need to collaborate to promote sustainable environmental policies.

Digital Transformation and Technological Advancement

The Fourth Industrial Revolution and digital transformation are rapidly changing the structure of Korean society. Technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and cloud computing are driving innovation across the economy and industry, significantly affecting employment and labor markets.

However, digital transformation does not bring only positive changes. Social inequalities caused by technological gaps, privacy protection issues, and job losses are also concerns that need to be addressed. In particular, the elderly or low-income individuals are more likely to be left behind in the digital transition, making educational and support programs for these groups essential.

Gender Equality and Women's Social Advancement

Gender equality continues to be an important issue in Korean society. While women's social participation has increased compared to the past, gender discrimination still exists in many areas. Issues such as workplace discrimination, the glass ceiling, and inequalities in child-rearing and family life are major challenges women face.

To expand women's social participation, it is not only necessary to solve gender discrimination but also to provide institutional support for balancing work and family life. For example, practical application of parental leave systems, the expansion of flexible working hours, and fair recruitment processes are critical tasks.

Intergenerational Conflicts

Intergenerational conflicts are deepening in Korean society. Economic and social conflicts between the younger and middle-aged generations are manifesting in various areas, such as employment, housing, and welfare, posing significant challenges to Korea's future. In particular, housing and pension issues are factors exacerbating intergenerational conflicts.

Resolving intergenerational conflicts requires mutual understanding and communication, along with policy approaches based on these foundations. Easing economic inequalities between generations and creating a social environment where everyone can enjoy equal opportunities are essential.

Changes and Innovations in the Education System

Korea's education system has long been called upon for change and innovation. Ongoing criticisms include excessive competition in college admissions, reliance on private education, and the practical value of higher education. As of 2024, the Ministry of Education is pushing for educational reform, particularly focusing on restructuring the education system to foster talent suited to the Fourth Industrial Revolution era.

However, competition for college admission remains fierce, and reliance on private education is still high. Additionally, improving the quality of higher education and addressing employment connections post-graduation are key challenges.

Housing Issues

Housing problems impose a heavy burden, especially on young people and the middle class. In large cities like Seoul, housing prices show no signs of stabilizing, and rents and leases are also skyrocketing. These housing issues make it difficult for young people to make decisions about marriage and childbirth, while increasing the economic burden on middle-class households.

The government is attempting to resolve these issues through housing stabilization policies, but long-term housing welfare system development is needed rather than short-term fixes. For instance, expanding public rental housing, stabilizing housing supply, and providing financial support are policy options to consider.

Changes in the Labor Market

The labor market is rapidly changing due to digital transformation and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. While traditional manufacturing jobs are declining, positions related to IT, data analysis, and artificial intelligence are increasing. As a result, workers are required to acquire new skills, and lifelong learning is becoming essential.

While these changes provide positive opportunities, they can also intensify inequalities due to job loss and technological gaps. Therefore, the government and businesses must provide educational and retraining opportunities to help workers adapt to the new environment.