South Korea experienced a steady rise in its working-age population from 1990, starting at and peaking at in 2015. This increase correlates with South Korea’s industrial and economic growth periods, driven by technological advancements and a shift from agriculture to industry and services. However, after 2015, the percentage began a gradual decline, reaching in 2022, as the country faces challenges with an aging population and low birth rates. The slight decline reflects ongoing demographic shifts and an increasing need for policies supporting a balanced workforce.
For a deeper dive into the topic, explore South Korea’s population changes, industry sector share in South Korea’s GDP, South Korea’s population density.