Multicultural Marriages Reach Pre-Pandemic Levels in Korea
The Ministry of Data and Statistics reported that the number of multicultural marriages in Korea last year hit its highest point since before the COVID-19 pandemic. This marks a significant recovery following a sharp decline during the pandemic years.
Rising Births from Multicultural Families
Births from multicultural parents also increased by more than 1,000 compared to the previous year, ending a 12-year trend of decline. This growth reflects a renewed trend in international marriages and the positive impact of government family support programs.
Statistical Trends Over Recent Years
- Multicultural marriages totaled 21,450 last year, up by 1,019 marriages (5%) from the previous year.
- The numbers had been rising steadily since 2016, peaking at 24,721 in 2019 before the pandemic.
- Following the COVID-19 outbreak, marriages fell sharply to 16,177 in 2020 and further to 13,916 in 2021.
- The figures have gradually rebounded, exceeding 20,000 in 2023.
Government and Social Factors Behind the Increase
“The increase likely stems from a resurgence in international marriage demand that had been suppressed during the pandemic, coupled with greater stability in the residency status of foreign workers in Korea,” said a ministry official.
Additionally, total marriages nationwide rose by 14.8% year-on-year to 222,000 in 2024, showing a stronger growth compared to multicultural marriages.
Author’s Summary
The rebound in multicultural marriages and births in Korea reflects renewed international unions and supportive government measures after pandemic disruptions.