Recent Fertility Trends in Nordic Countries and Their Implications for Korean Society

Abstract

Northern European countries including Sweden, with their Nordic welfare models, have maintained higher fertility rates than other high-income countries. After 2010, however, these Nordic countries had noticeable declines in fertility rates. This trend, which no existing social science theories could predict or explain and which portends the possibility of a long-term decline in birthrates beyond mere delayed childbirths, has prompted researchers in many social-science fields, including demography, to embark on studying the factors driving it. One of the most promising explanations proposed to date is what is known as the “narrative of the future framework,” which suggests that delaying or forgoing childbirth is closely related to the growing uncertainty perceived by individuals. Research on uncertainty narratives provides valuable insights into Korea’s low-fertility issues, as it not only addresses objective factors—such as economic, social, and political conditions—but also sheds light on the effect of individuals’ perceptions of the future on their fertility behavior. In addition, recent research on the correlation between life satisfaction and mental health suggests that improved life satisfaction and better mental health can lead to higher birth rates.