Low childbirth alarm goes off

SEOUL: Korea's population grew by 0.63% over the past year, but demographers predict a net decline beginning in the next decade at the earliest. Seeing a red warning light flashing, social welfare officials are already working on high-fertility incentives, and other measures, to encourage childbirth. 

As many Koreans feel that they live in one of the world's most over-populated countries, the idea of fewer people living on this narrow land is a relief. Images of less traffic congestion, less crowded parks and beaches and an easier time in finding housing must enter their minds, along with other visions of a higher quality of life.