Korea has experienced lowest-low fertility since 2001. In identifying factors contributing to the fertility decline, many micro-level approaches have been made with the focus on changes fertility behaviors among individuals and couples. However, few studies have attempted to examine the structural factors affecting fertility changes at the national and regional levels and still less attempt has been made to understand the mechanism in which individual-level behavior directly or indirectly affect structural changes in fertility levels and patterns.
In an attempt to understand Korea’s low fertility situations from a macro-micro-macro perspective, this study identifies the macro-level conditions related to fertility decline in Korea. The macro-level conditions include societal and cultural factors such as education, employment, housing, health, policy (childcare), gender equality and values. This study addresses how these macro level conditions are associated with micro- level fertility intention and behavior. Based on the findings, this study suggests paradigm shifts in policy approaches in ways to raise Korea’s fertility level.