Korea’s Extreme OECD Statistics: “Surviving Itself is a Miracle”

ranking lowest in birth rates and average sleep duration

Recent OECD statistics reveal that Korea ranks highest in negative indicators such as suicide rates and elderly poverty rates, while also ranking lowest in birth rates and average sleep duration. These statistics have sparked significant discussion on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), highlighting various issues within Korean society.

On the 26th, a post on social media platform X featured a chart titled "Korea According to OECD Statistics." This chart consolidates indicators where Korea ranks either at the top or the bottom among OECD member countries.

- Total Fertility Rate: Korea’s total fertility rate is 0.78 children per woman, the lowest among OECD countries. This rate is less than half the OECD average of 1.51, and Korea is the only country with a rate below 1.

- Suicide Rate: Korea has the highest suicide rate among OECD member countries, with 24.1 suicides per 100,000 people. This is more than twice the OECD average of 10.7 per 100,000.

- Elderly Poverty Rate: The income poverty rate for individuals aged 66 and over in Korea is 40.4%, nearly three times the OECD average of 14.2%. Korea is the only country where this rate exceeds 40%.

- Child Life Satisfaction: Korea ranks lowest in child life satisfaction among 15-year-olds, following Turkey, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

- Average Sleep Duration: Korea's average sleep duration is 7 hours and 41 minutes, the shortest among OECD member countries.

- Happiness Index: Korea’s happiness index is low, ranking after Turkey, Colombia, and Greece.

The statistics have prompted responses from users on X, with comments such as “It’s truly extreme. We somehow manage to get by,” “The elderly are unprepared for retirement, and younger generations are pushed into competition due to high education levels,” and “Choosing not to marry or have children is an inevitable outcome.” These reactions highlight the complex issues facing Korean society and underscore the need for comprehensive solutions.

The extreme rankings of Korea in OECD statistics reveal significant social challenges. The low fertility rates, high suicide rates, and elderly poverty rates are critical issues that demand policy attention and societal action. Addressing these problems requires a multifaceted approach and sustained effort to improve the quality of life for Korean citizens.