In 2024, the birth rate in South Korea stood at 0.75 births per woman. The country has long struggled with a declining birth rate, dropping below one birth per woman in 2018.

In 2025, the South Korean government allocated about **** trillion South Korean won to address the declining fertility rate, which was a 13 percent increase compared to the previous year's budget. The budget was mainly allocated to support housing and related issues, followed by policies to improve work-family balance.

Korea Birth Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data was reported at 7.900 Ratio in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 8.600 Ratio for 2015. Korea Birth Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data is updated yearly, averaging 16.000 Ratio from Dec 1960 (Median) to 2016, with 57 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 42.266 Ratio in 1960 and a record low of 7.900 Ratio in 2016. Korea Birth Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Korea – Table KR.World Bank: Population and Urbanization Statistics. Crude birth rate indicates the number of live births occurring during the year, per 1,000 population estimated at midyear. Subtracting the crude death rate from the crude birth rate provides the rate of natural increase, which is equal to the rate of population change in the absence of migration.; ; (1) United Nations Population Division. World Population Prospects: 2017 Revision. (2) Census reports and other statistical publications from national statistical offices, (3) Eurostat: Demographic Statistics, (4) United Nations Statistical Division. Population and Vital Statistics Reprot (various years), (5) U.S. Census Bureau: International Database, and (6) Secretariat of the Pacific Community: Statistics and Demography Programme.; Weighted average;

North Korea KP: Birth Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data was reported at 13.834 Ratio in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 13.873 Ratio for 2015. North Korea KP: Birth Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data is updated yearly, averaging 20.651 Ratio from Dec 1960 (Median) to 2016, with 57 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 37.774 Ratio in 1968 and a record low of 13.834 Ratio in 2016. North Korea KP: Birth Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s North Korea – Table KP.World Bank.WDI: Population and Urbanization Statistics. Crude birth rate indicates the number of live births occurring during the year, per 1,000 population estimated at midyear. Subtracting the crude death rate from the crude birth rate provides the rate of natural increase, which is equal to the rate of population change in the absence of migration.; ; (1) United Nations Population Division. World Population Prospects: 2017 Revision. (2) Census reports and other statistical publications from national statistical offices, (3) Eurostat: Demographic Statistics, (4) United Nations Statistical Division. Population and Vital Statistics Reprot (various years), (5) U.S. Census Bureau: International Database, and (6) Secretariat of the Pacific Community: Statistics and Demography Programme.; Weighted average;

In 1900, the fertility rate in the region of present-day South Korea was six children per woman, meaning that the average woman born in South Korea in that year could expect to have six children over the course of their reproductive years. This number began to fluctuate in the 1930s, when the Japanese administration (the Korean peninsula had been annexed by Japan in 1910) promoted fertility as part of the war effort, before fertility dropped below 5.2 births per woman in the aftermath of the war. It then increased above 6.3 in the 1950s due to the devastation and mass-displacement caused by the Korean War. As stability returned to the region, South Korea's fertility rate would fall sharply throughout the remainder of the century, as modernization, urbanization, and the implementation of family planning programs would see fertility fall to just over 1.5 children per woman by 1990.

Sex-selective abortion and gender ratios Abortion was illegal in South Korea between 1953 and 2020, although it was permitted in some cases from 1973 onward. Despite this, these laws were rarely enforced, and sex-selective abortion became widespread following advancements in ultrasound technology. In many Asian societies, it was often preferred to have male children as they were viewed as being better long-term providers for their parents and they would carry on the family name. In South Korea in the early 1990s, the practice of sex-selective abortion became so widespread that the gender ratio at birth was 114 males for every 100 females (reportedly as high as 125 in some cities), compared to the historical and natural average of approximately 105 males per 100 females. The government then prohibited doctors from revealing the gender of unborn babies to the parents in 1987, and introduced more severe penalties in 1994, in an attempt to revert this trend. The gender imbalance then reduced in the following decades, and has been at 106 males per 100 females since the 2010s (roughly the natural average). Abortion rights in South Korea were expanded in 2021.

Lowest in the world? Despite government initiatives aimed at increasing fertility, including financial incentives, South Korea's fertility rate has continued to fall in recent years, and today is at around half of replacement level. In 2020, it is estimated that the average woman born in South Korea will have just over one child over the course of their reproductive years. Some critics cite economic factors, such as high education and housing costs, for the reason that young couples are postponing marriage and having families; today, South Korea has the lowest adolescent fertility rate, and the lowest overall fertility rate in the Asia Pacific region. Due to the current trajectory of South Korea's fertility rate, in January 2021, it was announced that the South Korean population experienced a natural decline for the first time in it's history.

Korea Fertility Rate: per Woman data was reported at 1.590 NA in 2050. This records an increase from the previous number of 1.580 NA for 2049. Korea Fertility Rate: per Woman data is updated yearly, averaging 1.400 NA from Jun 1990 (Median) to 2050, with 61 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1.780 NA in 1992 and a record low of 1.120 NA in 2005. Korea Fertility Rate: per Woman data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by US Census Bureau. The data is categorized under Global Database’s South Korea – Table KR.US Census Bureau: Demographic Projection.

In South Korea, approximately 70.69 percent of the population was between 15 and 64 years old in 2023, while those above the age of 64 made up around 18.34 percent. The youngest generation made up an even smaller percentage than the elderly, but were the only group that did not increase in size over the last decade, partly due to a decrease in births since 2007. Reasons for fewer children While it is not always the case that family sizes shrink when there are less births per woman, the fertility rate in South Korea is undisputably decreasing overall and less children are born. The reasons people cite for having fewer children vary greatly by gender and marital status in South Korea: For example, more married people than singles - and of those more married women than men - say that the difficulty of maintaining a work life balance is the largest concern for them. Meanwhile, men express more economic concerns about child support, and notably more singles nowadays say they feel no need to have children.

Time series data for the statistic Birth_Rate_Crude_Per_1000_People and country Korea, Dem. People's Rep.. Indicator Definition:Crude birth rate indicates the number of live births occurring during the year, per 1,000 population estimated at midyear. Subtracting the crude death rate from the crude birth rate provides the rate of natural increase, which is equal to the rate of population change in the absence of migration.The statistic "Birth Rate Crude Per 1000 People" stands at 12.95 per mille as of 12/31/2023, the lowest value at least since 12/31/1961, the period currently displayed. Regarding the One-Year-Change of the series, the current value constitutes a decrease of -0.202 percentage points compared to the value the year prior.The 1 year change in percentage points is -0.202.The 3 year change in percentage points is -0.444.The 5 year change in percentage points is -0.48.The 10 year change in percentage points is -0.41.The Serie's long term average value is 21.23 per mille. It's latest available value, on 12/31/2023, is 8.28 percentage points lower, compared to it's long term average value.The Serie's change in percentage points from it's minimum value, on 12/31/2023, to it's latest available value, on 12/31/2023, is +0.0.The Serie's change in percentage points from it's maximum value, on 12/31/1967, to it's latest available value, on 12/31/2023, is -26.36.

With an average of *** births per woman, Afghanistan had the highest fertility rate throughout the Asia-Pacific region in 2024. Pakistan and Papua New Guinea followed with the second and third-highest fertility rates, respectively. In contrast, South Korea and Hong Kong had the lowest fertility rates across the region. Contraception usage Fertility rates among women in the Asia-Pacific region have fallen throughout recent years. A likely reason is an increase in contraception use. However, contraception usage varies greatly throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Although contraception prevalence is set to increase across South Asia by 2030, women in both East Asia and Southeast Asia had higher contraception usage compared to South Asia in 2019. Women in APAC With the rise of feminism and the advancement of human rights, attitudes towards the role of women have changed in the Asia-Pacific region. Achieving gender equality has become a vital necessity for both men and women throughout the region. Alongside changes in traditional gender roles, women in certain Asia-Pacific countries, such as New Zealand, have become more inclined to marry later in life. Furthermore, the focus for younger women appears to be with having stability in their lives and securing an enjoyable job. This was displayed when female high school students in Japan were questioned about their future life aspirations.

Korea Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff: % of Total data was reported at 100.000 % in 2015. This records an increase from the previous number of 99.800 % for 2012. Korea Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff: % of Total data is updated yearly, averaging 99.800 % from Dec 1990 (Median) to 2015, with 9 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 100.000 % in 2015 and a record low of 97.900 % in 1991. Korea Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff: % of Total data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s South Korea – Table KR.World Bank.WDI: Health Statistics. Births attended by skilled health staff are the percentage of deliveries attended by personnel trained to give the necessary supervision, care, and advice to women during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period; to conduct deliveries on their own; and to care for newborns.; ; UNICEF, State of the World's Children, Childinfo, and Demographic and Health Surveys.; Weighted average; Assistance by trained professionals during birth reduces the incidence of maternal deaths during childbirth. The share of births attended by skilled health staff is an indicator of a health system’s ability to provide adequate care for pregnant women.

The statistic shows the total population in Japan from 2020 to 2024, with projections up until 2030. In 2024, the total population of Japan amounted to around 123.89 million inhabitants. See the figures for the population of South Korea for comparison. Total population in Japan From steadily low fertility rates to a growing elderly population, it is no secret that Japan’s population is shrinking. Population growth rates jump around a little, but are currently following a declining trend. The post-war baby boom generation is now in the 65-and-over age group, and the percentage of the population in that category is expected to keep growing, as is indicated by a high median age and high life expectancy. Japan already has the highest percentage of its population over 65 in the world, and the aging population puts some pressure on the Japanese government to provide welfare services for more people as rising numbers leave the workforce. However, the amount of jobs opened up for the younger generations by the older generations leaving the workforce means that unemployment is kept to a minimum. Despite a jump in unemployment after the global recession hit in 2008, rates were almost back to pre-recession rates by 2013. Another factor affecting Japan is the number of emigrants to other countries. The United States absorbs a number of emigrants worldwide, so despite a stagnating birth rate, the U.S. has seen a steady rise in population.

The statistic shows the 20 countries with the lowest fertility rates in 2024. All figures are estimates. In 2024, the fertility rate in Taiwan was estimated to be at 1.11 children per woman, making it the lowest fertility rate worldwide. Fertility rate The fertility rate is the average number of children born per woman of child-bearing age in a country. Usually, a woman aged between 15 and 45 is considered to be in her child-bearing years. The fertility rate of a country provides an insight into its economic state, as well as the level of health and education of its population. Developing countries usually have a higher fertility rate due to lack of access to birth control and contraception, and to women usually foregoing a higher education, or even any education at all, in favor of taking care of housework. Many families in poorer countries also need their children to help provide for the family by starting to work early and/or as caretakers for their parents in old age. In developed countries, fertility rates and birth rates are usually much lower, as birth control is easier to obtain and women often choose a career before becoming a mother. Additionally, if the number of women of child-bearing age declines, so does the fertility rate of a country. As can be seen above, countries like Hong Kong are a good example for women leaving the patriarchal structures and focusing on their own career instead of becoming a mother at a young age, causing a decline of the country’s fertility rate. A look at the fertility rate per woman worldwide by income group also shows that women with a low income tend to have more children than those with a high income. The United States are neither among the countries with the lowest, nor among those with the highest fertility rate, by the way. At 2.08 children per woman, the fertility rate in the US has been continuously slightly below the global average of about 2.4 children per woman over the last decade.

Korea Death Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data was reported at 5.500 Ratio in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 5.400 Ratio for 2015. Korea Death Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data is updated yearly, averaging 5.600 Ratio from Dec 1960 (Median) to 2016, with 57 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 13.991 Ratio in 1960 and a record low of 5.000 Ratio in 2009. Korea Death Rate: Crude: per 1000 People data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s South Korea – Table KR.World Bank.WDI: Population and Urbanization Statistics. Crude death rate indicates the number of deaths occurring during the year, per 1,000 population estimated at midyear. Subtracting the crude death rate from the crude birth rate provides the rate of natural increase, which is equal to the rate of population change in the absence of migration.; ; (1) United Nations Population Division. World Population Prospects: 2017 Revision. (2) Census reports and other statistical publications from national statistical offices, (3) Eurostat: Demographic Statistics, (4) United Nations Statistical Division. Population and Vital Statistics Reprot (various years), (5) U.S. Census Bureau: International Database, and (6) Secretariat of the Pacific Community: Statistics and Demography Programme.; Weighted average;

The fertility rates have fallen in all five Nordic countries over the last years. However, in 2021, the birth rates increased again in all five Nordics countries, besides in Sweden, where the fertility rate stayed the same. This can be explained by the higher number of babies born during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, Iceland had the highest fertility rate of the Nordic countries, with *** children born per woman in reproductive age. The global trend of decreasing fertility The Nordics are not the only region with decreasing fertility rates. Globally, fertility rates have been on a steady decline since 2000. While lower-income countries have had more significant declines, they still have more children born per woman than higher-income countries. In 2000, almost * children were born per woman in low-income countries, decreasing to **** in 2021. By comparison, nearly **** children were born per woman in high-income countries, falling slightly to **** by 2021. Overall, in 2023, Niger, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo had the highest fertility rates, while Taiwan, South Korea, and Singapore had the lowest fertility rates. Impacts of low fertility Greater access to education, challenges between work-life balance, and the costs of raising children can all be linked to falling fertility rates. However, this decline is not without consequences, and many countries are facing social and economic challenges because of aging and shrinking populations. For example, in Japan, where nearly ** percent of the country is aged 65 or older, an increasing proportion of the government expenditure is going towards social security benefits. Moreover, the very low unemployment rate in Japan can partially be attributed to having a shrinking labor force and fewer people to support the economy.

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Baby Toiletries Market Size 2025-2029

The baby toiletries market size is forecast to increase by USD 8.59 billion at a CAGR of 6.3% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by key trends such as product portfolio extension and innovation leading to product premiumization. Manufacturers are responding to consumer demand for high-quality, multipurpose baby toiletry products, which offer convenience and value. However, the market also faces challenges, including the prevalence of bathroom counterfeit products. These fake items not only undermine brand reputation but also pose a risk to consumer safety. As the market continues to evolve, companies must prioritize product innovation, quality, and consumer safety to stay competitive. By addressing these trends and challenges, the market is poised for continued growth in the coming years.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a wide range of clean and natural products designed to maintain the hygiene and well-being of infants. These products include moisturizing body washes, baby hair oils, diaper rash creams, baby massage oils, and organic baby shampoos. Parents increasingly prefer natural and organic ingredients for their babies, eschewing harsh chemicals such as benzethonium chloride, phthalates, and formaldehyde, which have been linked to skin allergies and other health concerns. E-commerce and online websites have revolutionized the market, making it more accessible to consumers. Parents can now easily purchase these essential items from the comfort of their homes. The rise of vegan beauty brands in the market further caters to the growing demand for clean and ethical products.
The baby hygiene sector is driven by several factors, including the birth rate, increasing awareness of health and well-being, and the growing preference for natural and organic products. Packaging solutions that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness are also gaining popularity. Herbal products, in particular, have gained traction due to their natural and gentle properties. Despite the growing demand for natural and organic baby toiletries, there are still concerns regarding the use of certain chemicals in these products. Parents must remain vigilant and read labels carefully to ensure they are purchasing products that align with their values and prioritize their baby's health.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Geography

  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Italy


  North America

    Canada
    US


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Distribution Channel Insights

The offline segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses the sale of diapers, skincare products, and wipes for infants and toddlers. Offline distribution channels, including specialty stores, hypermarkets, supermarkets, and drugstores, account for a significant portion of revenue. However, the shift towards online shopping has led to a gradual decline in offline sales. In response, companies are expanding their retail presence in local and regional markets. The market is competitive, with retailers introducing innovative strategies to sustain growth. Baby toiletries include diapers, water wipes, protective skincare products, baby oils, and lotions. Vegan beauty brands are gaining popularity, leading to an increase in demand for natural and synthetic chemical-free skincare products.

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The offline segment was valued at USD 18.27 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

Europe is estimated to contribute 31% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The market is projected to expand at a consistent pace over the forecast period. Major contributors to this market growth are the increasing standard of living, the introduction of innovative products, and the strong brand value of premium baby toiletries. Germany and the UK dominate the market in terms of value share. companies cater to diverse consumer preferences by offering a range of variants and price points. In Europe, the demand for natural and organic baby toiletries

Sunshine, Mediterranean diet, and a sociable lifestyle must be the secret to living a long life, because Spain’s life expectancy ranked as one of the highest on the planet according to the most recent studies. The Mediterranean country managed to increase its average life expectancy by approximately two years in the last decade, standing at 83.77 years old as of 2023. Regions full of life: developed Asia and the Latin Arch There seems to be a pattern as to where in the world people’s lives tend to be longer. As can be seen in the most recent data, Japan topped the list of the countries with the longest life expectancy at 84 years old. Other developed Asian countries can be found on this list, Republic of Korea with a life expectancy of approximately 83 years old and Singapore with 83 years old. Similarly, along with Spain, France, and Italy both featured a very high life expectancy. The latest studies show that people that were born in these Mediterranean countries had an expected life length of roughly 83 years at birth. Ageing: a common problem across the continent Data related to age in Spain essentially behave in a similar fashion as the rest of its European counterparts, whose population is also slowly but surely getting older. This will not come as a surprise since Spain has one of the highest life expectancies at birth in the world and one of the lowest European fertility rate, which stood at 1.29 children per woman according to the latest reports.

The statistic depicts Australia's gross domestic product (GDP) from 1987 to 2024, with projections up until 2030. In 2024, GDP in Australia amounted to about 1.8 trillion US dollars. See global GDP for a global comparison. Australia’s economy and population Australia’s gross domestic product has been growing steadily, and all in all, Australia and its economic key factors show a well-set country. Australia is among the countries with the largest gross domestic product / GDP worldwide, and thus one of the largest economies. It was one of the few countries not severely stricken by the 2008 financial crisis; its unemployment rate, inflation rate and trade balance, for example, were hardly affected at all. In fact, the trade balance of Australia – a country’s exports minus its imports – has been higher than ever since 2010, with a slight dip in 2012. Australia mainly exports wine and agricultural products to countries like China, Japan or South Korea. One of Australia’s largest industries is tourism, which contributes a significant share to its gross domestic product. Almost half of approximately 23 million Australian residents are employed nowadays, life expectancy is increasing, and the fertility rate (the number of children born per woman) has been quite stable. A look at the distribution of the world population by continent shows that Australia is ranked last in terms of population and population density. Most of Australia's population lives at the coast in metropolitan areas, since parts of the continent are uninhabitable. Unsurprisingly, Australia is known as a country with very high living standards, four of its biggest cities – Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Perth – are among the most livable cities worldwide.