A popular German science YouTube channel, Kurzgesagt, has raised the alarm over South Korea’s rapidly declining birth rate, warning of potential national collapse if the trend continues.
Kurzgesagt, which has over 23.9 million subscribers, released a video titled “SOUTH KOREA IS OVER” on April 2. The video went viral, surpassing 3.8 million views in just two days and drawing international attention.
The video outlines how South Korea’s fertility rate has dropped from 6.0 in the 1950s to 0.72 in 2023 ? the world’s lowest. In Seoul, the rate is even lower at 0.55. Kurzgesagt predicts that by 2060, South Korea’s population could shrink by 30%, triggering labor shortages, pension strain, and broader social and economic instability.
It also warns that half the population may be over 65 by then, with those under 25 making up less than 10%. Youth-driven industries like K-pop and K-drama may also be affected.
The video cites long work hours, traditional gender roles, financial stress, and declining interest in marriage as causes.
Many online commenters and reaction videos noted that foreign observers seem more alarmed than South Korean leaders, reflecting the country’s growing resignation over its demographic future.