Story perspectives

South Korea's Debt Crisis: Aging Population Fuels Soaring Costs

2/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

South Korea's national debt may soar from 1,270 trillion won to 7,300 trillion won by 2072 due to an aging population.
The debt-to-GDP ratio could rise from 48% to 173%, exceeding 100% by 2050.
The senior population (65+) is expected to increase from 10.51 million in 2025 to 17.27 million by 2072.
The working-age population (15-64) may decline from 35.91 million to 16.58 million.
The National Pension Fund risks depletion by 2057, potentially resulting in a 2,900 trillion won fiscal deficit by 2072.

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Story summary

South Korea's national debt may soar from 1,270 trillion won to 7,300 trillion won by 2072 due to an aging population.
The debt-to-GDP ratio could rise from 48% to 173%, exceeding 100% by 2050.
The senior population (65+) is expected to increase from 10.51 million in 2025 to 17.27 million by 2072.
The working-age population (15-64) may decline from 35.91 million to 16.58 million.
The National Pension Fund risks depletion by 2057, potentially resulting in a 2,900 trillion won fiscal deficit by 2072.