Demographics of South Korea

As of 2026, South Korea's population is projected at 51.60 million, compared to 51.67 million in 2025. It ranks 31st in the world by population and 13th in Asia, accounting for 1.06% of Asia’s population and 0.62% of the world’s population. The population growth rate for 2026 is projected at -0.14%, placing South Korea 184th among 237 countries and dependent territories.

There are 25.73 million males and 25.87 million females in South Korea. The male population accounts for 49.86%, compared to 50.14% for females. South Korea has 147k more females than males. The sex ratio in 2026 is projected at 99.43 males per 100 females. South Korea ranks 151st globally in terms of the female-to-male ratio.

In South Korea, 249,556 babies are born each year, the 81st highest number of births worldwide, accounting for about 0.19% of global births—roughly 684 per day, or 28 per hour. Meanwhile, around 385,355 people die annually, the 31st highest death toll in the world, representing nearly 0.61% of global deaths—about 1,056 per day, or 44 per hour.

In 2026, South Korea’s life expectancy at birth is projected to reach 84.64 years, approximately 10.87 years higher than the global average. This places South Korea fifth worldwide, behind Monaco, San Marino, Hong Kong, and Japan, and third-highest in Asia.

Urban areas are home to 41.89 million people, or 81.18% of South Korea's total population. South Korea ranks 65th in terms of urbanization.

• Population
• Growth rate
• Gender

South Korea population

• Life expectancy
• Median age
• Fertility rate

Demographics Indicators

• Total
• Crude

South Korea death and birth rate

• Population
• Urbanization

Urban and rural population of South Korea

• Population pyramid
• Gender ratio

South Korea population by Age Group (2026)