A Case Study on Japan's Policy Responses to Population Decline

Abstract

This study reviewed Japan’s population decline policies to identify applicable measures for Korea. Japan’s approach—centered on child-rearing support and regional revitalization—involves collaboration between central and local governments. Key initiatives include attracting foreign talent, supporting internal migration, addressing vacant housing, and assisting shopping refugees. The study suggests five directions for Korea: improve the system by taking advantage of the purpose of the hometown love donation system, respond to the de facto population and the society with more deaths than births, efforts to improve local residents’ awareness and acceptance of foreign workers, promote public-private cooperation and an integrated approach, and establish a support system for shopping refugees.