韩国的老年人口在2026年1月超过了20%,引发了紧迫的社会和经济挑战。 South Korea’s elderly population surpassed 20% in January 2026, driving urgent social and economic challenges.

根据政府数据,韩国65岁及65岁以上人口在2026年1月达到21.21%,超过了总人口的五分之一。 South Korea’s population aged 65 and older reached 21.21% in January 2026, exceeding one-fifth of the total population, according to government data. 高龄人口达到1 084万人,比上一年增加了近6%,原因是出生率低和寿命延长。 The senior population hit 10.84 million, a nearly 6% rise from the previous year, driven by low birth rates and longer lifespans. 农村地区和11个省,包括釜山和济州,老年人口超过20%,一些州65岁以上的居民接近一半。 Rural areas and 11 provinces, including Busan and Jeju, saw senior populations surpass 20%, with some counties nearing half their residents over 65. 单人家庭现在共有1 027万户,占所有家庭的42.27%,70岁及70岁以上的家庭是最大的群体。 Single-person households, now totaling 10.27 million, make up 42.27% of all households, with those aged 70 and older the largest group. 平均家庭规模减少到2.10人,对福利、保健和住房的压力越来越大。 The average household size has dropped to 2.10 people, increasing strain on welfare, healthcare, and housing. 每10名老年人中有4人生活在贫困中,决策者在解决孤立问题和维持社会制度方面面临紧迫挑战。 With four in ten seniors living in poverty, policymakers face urgent challenges in addressing isolation and sustaining social systems.