4/23 Talk about Korea’s aging society.

Korea is one of the most rapidly aging countries in the world.

ex> Japan has one of the most rapidly aging populations among advanced nations.

It was officially labeled an “aging society” back in 2000. That’s when the elderly started to take up more than 7% of the country’s population.

* the elderly: 노년층

ex> You should always try to respect the elderly.

Korea is now approaching the next level – an “aged society.” That’s when the elderly account for more than 14% of the total population.

It is expected to hit that mark within the next decade.

* within the next decade: 향후 10년 안에

ex> I’m not sure whether I would get married within the next decade.

ex> The company has set a goal to go public within the next decade.

The main factors behind this trend are the country’s low birthrate and longer life expectancy.

ex> The Korean population enjoys a longer life expectancy than ever.

If the current trend holds, Korea will face lower economic productivity in the future.

ex> The government needs to boost economic productivity.

Plus, the burden of the working population to support the elderly will increase greatly.

@ I’ll meet you halfway in between.  중간에서 만나자

<HOMEWORK>

1. Japan is one of the most rapidly aging countries in the world.

2. The young people should respect the elderly.

3. Women have a longer life expectancy than men.

4. Health problems can lower economic productivity.

@ Related Topics>> Aging Society