Theoretical Explanations of Rapid Fertility Decline in Korea

Abstract

This paper develops theoretical explanations for the causal mechanisms of fertility decline in Korea. Fertility transition in Korea is divided into two stages: the first fertility transition from 1960 to 1985 and the second fertility transition from 1985 to the present. Theoretical explanations of why and how Korea has passed through the first and the second fertility transition are provided. The main objective is to highlight the causal mechanisms of the second fertility transition, and to compare those of the first fertility transition. Key forces behind the recent fertility decline including labor market insecurity, family formation and gender equity orientation are emphasized. In this paper, attention is also given to driving plausible recommendations for pro-natal policy directions and responses to recent situations of the lowest-low fertility.