South Korea is seeing a growing trend of older mothers, according to new government data. More than one in three women gave birth at age 35 or older in 2024. Health authorities consider this age a global threshold for higher pregnancy complications.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare revealed the statistics through Rep. Kim Mi-ae of the opposition People Power Party. The proportion of births to older mothers rose from 26.4 percent in 2016 to 35.9 percent in 2024. Meanwhile, the average maternal age increased from 32.4 to 33.7 years during the same period.
Globally, pregnancies at age 35 or above carry higher health risks for both mothers and babies. Experts note that gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, premature birth, and chromosomal conditions occur more frequently. Older mothers also face increased chances of multiple pregnancies due to hormonal changes.
In line with this trend, the percentage of multiple births in South Korea rose from 3.9 percent in 2016 to 5.7 percent in 2024. Medical expenses for premature babies have also surged. Costs jumped from 185 billion won ($129.4 million) in 2018 to 265 billion won in 2024, a 43 percent rise.
Healthcare spending for babies with congenital health issues increased even more, rising about 70 percent from 307 billion won to 524 billion won over the same period. Maternal age remains a key factor behind these trends, although other causes contribute.
Changing social patterns also play a role. South Koreans are marrying later, with the average marriage age at 33.9 for men and 31.6 for women in 2024. This compares to 27.8 and 24.8 years in 1990. Similarly, women giving birth at age 40 or above rose from 5.9 percent in 2019 to 9.5 percent in 2024.
Health authorities warn that older mothers may require more monitoring during pregnancy. They stress the importance of regular checkups and prenatal care. Experts suggest that awareness campaigns could help families plan for these risks.
The rise in older mothers signals broader demographic shifts. It affects family planning, healthcare infrastructure, and social policy. Consequently, policymakers may need to consider targeted support for maternal health and childcare.
