Median age at first marriage South Korea 1990-2023, by gender

In 2023, the median age at which South Korean women got married for the first time was 31.45 years, while that of men was 33.97 years. The average age of both men and women marrying for the first time in South Korea has risen steadily in recent years, reaching an all-time high in 2023.

Changing perceptions of marriage

As the trend of marrying later in life continues, the number of marriages in South Korea has steadily declined. While the overall population decrease may contribute, the most notable factor is the societal shift in the perception of marriage. A survey revealed that almost half of married South Koreans now view marriage as an option, not a necessity, marking a significant change in societal attitudes. One of the most common reasons singles want to avoid getting married is concern about raising children after marriage. High wedding costs and worries about one's career equally influence the steadily rising age of marriage.

Demographic aspects

While more and more women in South Korea are choosing to marry later or not at all, this trend also has a corresponding effect on the country's demographic change. The declining number of births and the simultaneous increase in life expectancy are some of the challenges the country will face in the future, especially in terms of economic productivity and growth.