Lowest-low fertility in the republic of korea: variations by locality, 2000 – 2010

Fertility in the Republic of Korea has been at the lowest-low level since 2001. The present paper examines variations in fertility measured by total fertility rate based on period parity progression ratios and their components, estimated from censuses of 2000, 2005, and 2010. Total fertility rate changed minimally during the period 2000-2010, but some components of it, especially the period parity progression ratios to first marriage and from first to second births, fluctuated substantially. Variations by locality in fertility have been substantial and increased after 2000, especially for progressions to marriage and to second birth. Localities with a large proportion of women with higher education have lower progression to first marriage. Localities with a large proportion of children under age 5 using childcare facilities have higher progression to second birth in the most recent year (2010). The authors conclude that family policies and programmes that began in 2006 are having some positive impacts on raising fertility.