South Korea's military is undergoing a significant downsizing, with its forces shrinking by 20% as the country grapples with a severe decline in birthrates. This demographic crisis has led to a sharp drop in recruitment, forcing the government to rethink its defence strategy.
The Demographic Time Bomb
With one of the lowest birthrates in the world, South Korea is struggling to maintain its military strength. The country's fertility rate has fallen to a record low, leaving fewer young people available for conscription. Experts warn that this trend could have long-term implications for national security.
Impact on National Security
The reduction in troop numbers comes at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Analysts suggest that South Korea may need to rely more heavily on technology and alliances to compensate for the shrinking manpower. The government is already investing in advanced military technologies, including AI and robotics, to address the shortfall.
Government Response
Officials have acknowledged the challenge and are exploring various solutions, including incentives for larger families and extended service periods for conscripts. However, reversing the demographic trend is expected to take decades, leaving the military with no quick fixes.
This situation highlights the broader issue of ageing populations in developed nations, where declining birthrates are reshaping societies and economies in unprecedented ways.
