Gangjin-gun’s Fertility Success: How Childcare & Housing Policies Doubled National Average
A Regional Approach to Reversing Declining Birth Rates: Lessons from Gangjin County, South Korea
South Korea is facing a demographic crisis, with one of the lowest fertility rates in the world. Nationally, the total fertility rate – the average number of children a woman is expected to have in her lifetime – stands at a concerning reported 0.75. However, within this national trend, certain regions are demonstrating promising results. Gangjin County, in the Jeollanam-do province, is emerging as a notable exception, achieving a total fertility rate significantly higher than the national average and maintaining top rankings for three consecutive years.
According to birth statistics released by Statistics Korea, Gangjin County’s total fertility rate reached 1.64 in , ranking third nationwide. This followed a rate of 1.61 in , more than double the national average. Jeollanam-do province as a whole recorded a total fertility rate of 1.04 in the second quarter of , the only region in the country to exceed 1.0, with Gangjin County playing a key role in driving this positive trend.
The Impact of Comprehensive Childcare Support
The success of Gangjin County is largely attributed to its proactive and comprehensive approach to supporting families. Central to this strategy is a “childcare allowance” implemented in . This program provides a monthly payment of 600,000 won (approximately $450 USD as of February 2026) for up to 84 months – seven years – to every newborn, regardless of birth order or household income. This substantial financial support, totaling 50.4 million won (approximately $37,800 USD) per child, is designed to alleviate the financial burden of raising a family.
The impact of this policy has been significant. Since its implementation, the number of newborns in Gangjin County has increased by 84% over two years. This demonstrates the potential of direct financial assistance to influence reproductive decisions, particularly in a context where the cost of raising children is a major deterrent.
Beyond Financial Support: A Holistic Approach
Gangjin County’s strategy extends beyond simply providing financial aid. Recognizing that supporting families requires a holistic approach, the county has implemented a range of policies encompassing all stages of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. Postpartum care expense support has been increased from 1.54 million won to 1.6 million won, acknowledging the critical importance of maternal recovery and newborn care in the immediate postpartum period.
The total fertility rate, a key demographic indicator, is defined as the average number of children a woman is expected to have during her childbearing years. A rate below 1.0 signifies a population in structural decline, highlighting the urgency of addressing low birth rates.
Addressing Broader Socioeconomic Factors
Recognizing that financial support and postpartum care are not sufficient on their own, Gangjin County is also focusing on improving the overall quality of life for residents. This includes initiatives to strengthen the settlement base through housing improvements, specifically the remodeling of vacant houses. Policies are also being developed to link housing with employment opportunities, aiming to attract and retain residents, and to use population growth as a foundation for increased fertility rates.
This focus on the “living population” – encompassing not only registered residents but also those who reside, consume, and actively participate in the region – reflects an understanding that a thriving community is essential for encouraging families to grow. Approximately 75% of those receiving the childcare allowance were already living in the region, suggesting the policy is reinforcing existing community ties rather than solely attracting newcomers.
A Model for National Policy?
The success of Gangjin County offers valuable lessons for addressing South Korea’s broader demographic challenges. While the county’s approach may not be directly transferable to larger, more urban areas, the underlying principles – comprehensive support, long-term financial assistance, and a focus on improving quality of life – could inform national policy initiatives.
Kang Jin-won, governor of Gangjin-gun, emphasized the county’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its residents. “We will organically promote childbirth and childcare policies, improvement of settlement conditions, and industrial development by making improving the quality of life of the county residents a top priority over the next five years,” he stated. “We will fundamentally overcome the crisis of population extinction.”
The situation in Gangjin County demonstrates that reversing declining birth rates is possible with targeted, sustained, and comprehensive policies. As South Korea grapples with its demographic future, the experiences of this small county offer a glimmer of hope and a potential roadmap for a more sustainable future.