Kim Jong Un Urges North Korean Women to Boost Birth Rate to Counter Declining Population
ICARO Media Group
With tears in his eyes, Kim emphasized the importance of strengthening the country through a higher population, while also expressing the need for improved child care and education.
According to the South Korean government statistics agency, the average number of children expected to be born to a North Korean woman in 2022 is 1.79, a decrease from 1.88 in 2014. Despite this figure being higher than in rival South Korea, where the fertility rate has dipped to 0.78, Kim stressed the urgency for North Korean women to raise their birth rate.
Kim's emotional speech resonated with the audience, as images from state media showed individuals crying in solidarity with their leader. To incentivize larger families, the country is reportedly offering special benefits for families with three or more children.
Observers have also noted that Kim has been making public appearances with his young daughter, Ju Ae, which could be seen as a public relations effort to encourage more families to have children.
In addition to increasing the birth rate, Kim advised North Korean women on the importance of raising children who will contribute to the nation's future success. This includes eliminating non-socialist practices, promoting family harmony and social unity, and establishing a morally and culturally sound way of life. Kim emphasized the need for communist values and traits, which emphasize helping and leading one another forward.
The declining population figures could have significant implications for North Korea, including its military capabilities. Despite being ranked 56th in total population, the country maintains the fourth-largest standing army in the world, with approximately 1.3 million soldiers. Moreover, North Korea relies heavily on a centrally mobilized labor force to maintain economic stability.
Kim Jong Un's appeal to North Korean women highlights the growing concern over the declining birth rate and its potential consequences for the country. As the nation grapples with this issue, efforts to encourage larger families and promote a brighter future for North Korea are likely to continue.