C-section rates rise sharply in South Korea, reflecting a major shift in how childbirth is approached by both mothers and doctors. For many women, the decision now centers more on control and pain avoidance than medical need. Expectant mother Lee, 33, chose a surgical delivery for her first child despite having no health risks. She cited stories from friends and online forums that emphasized the trauma of labor and praised C-sections for their predictability. Her decision, once considered unusual, has become increasingly common across the country.
According to government data, 67.4 percent of births in 2024 occurred by cesarean section — a historic high. This marks a sharp jump from 51.1 percent in 2019 and exceeds international norms. In contrast, the US rate stands at 32.1 percent and Japan’s at just 18.6 percent. The World Health Organization recommends a rate between 10 and 15 percent. South Korea now far surpasses these global benchmarks.
C-section rates rise sharply in South Korea due to more than patient preference. Many doctors say they feel compelled to recommend surgery even when not medically necessary. Legal threats weigh heavily on obstetricians following several high-profile court rulings. In 2023, a physician was ordered to pay nearly $850,000 after complications during a natural birth. Since then, more doctors have turned to surgical deliveries as a precaution.
Age is another factor driving the trend. In 2024, the average age of South Korean mothers reached 33.7 years. As maternal age increases, labor becomes more difficult, leading doctors to prefer surgical intervention. Among mothers in their 40s, over 75 percent delivered by cesarean. Medical professionals note that older mothers face higher complication risks during labor.
Social media and online communities also influence women’s birth plans. Forums filled with childbirth stories often frame vaginal delivery as traumatic. Many posts recommend C-sections as a safer, less painful alternative. One user called it “the smart choice” to avoid the uncertainty of labor. These platforms shape public perceptions and often override medical advice.
Yet, doctors continue to warn against overusing surgical births. C-sections carry higher risks for both mother and baby. The maternal mortality rate for surgical delivery is 2.2 per 100,000 — eleven times that of vaginal births. Recovery times are also longer, and complications in future pregnancies increase. Despite these facts, many still choose surgery to avoid immediate pain.
C-section rates rise sharply in South Korea as defensive medicine becomes more entrenched. Legal fear has replaced clinical judgment in many delivery rooms. Some doctors now choose surgery at the first sign of uncertainty. Meanwhile, hospitals with fewer staff due to ongoing doctor protests often lack resources to support complex labor cases. As a result, smaller clinics push for planned surgeries instead of riskier natural births.
The government recognizes this trend and its dangers. Since 2013, a compensation program has aimed to protect doctors when birth complications occur despite proper care. However, most claims do not result in payments. Between 2021 and March 2025, only half of 101 claims were compensated. Experts argue that the system fails to reassure doctors or support sound medical decisions.
Recently, officials pledged to raise the compensation cap from 30 million to 300 million won. This change takes effect on July 1. Still, legal reform remains slow amid tensions between policymakers and healthcare workers. Lawmakers like Rep. Seo Myung-ok stress that stronger protections must be put in place. Until then, C-section rates are likely to keep rising, even when not necessary.
