South Korea Honours Mothers of 13 with Medals Amid Fertility Crisis
South Korea’s battle against its declining birth rate has taken a symbolic turn as the country awards medals to two women who each raised 13 children. The health and welfare ministry of South Korea presented civilian service medals to Eom Gye-suk, 60, and Lee Yeong-mi, 59, in recognition of their remarkable contributions to society.
Eom Gye-suk was bestowed with the Seongnyu Medal, the fifth grade of the Order of Civil Merit, honouring her significant social and educational accomplishments. Lee Yeong-mi received the Civil Merit Medal, acknowledging her dedication to public service and contributions to the community. Eom’s journey of raising five sons and eight daughters, while Lee had her first child at 23 and the last at 44, reflects their unwavering commitment to motherhood.
The awards ceremony, held at the Glad Hotel in Seoul, provided a platform for the two women to share their experiences. Eom expressed gratitude for the support she received while raising her children, stating, “After repeating pregnancy and childbirth for over 20 years, there were some difficulties, but thanks to my children who have grown up well, I think I have more happy moments than others.” Meanwhile, Lee highlighted the need for better policies supporting working parents, urging for a more inclusive workplace culture.
President Yoon Suk-yeol’s announcement earlier this year about setting up a dedicated ministry to address the plummeting birth rate underlines the severity of South Korea’s demographic crisis. The country’s fertility rate dropped to a record low of 0.78 in 2022, well below the replacement rate, prompting concerns about the future population sustainability.
Various factors contribute to South Korea’s declining birth rate, including economic pressures, changing societal dynamics, and gender inequalities. Women in the country face challenges balancing childcare responsibilities with professional aspirations, leading to a significant impact on birth rates. To address this, the government provides financial assistance and support programmes for families with children, aiming to alleviate some of the burdens associated with raising kids.
In a recent gesture of support, a couple received significant childbirth grants after welcoming quintuplets, showcasing the nation’s commitment to incentivising larger families. As South Korea grapples with the complexities of modern family dynamics, efforts to address the fertility crisis continue to evolve, emphasising the importance of community support and policy interventions.
The recognition of Eom Gye-suk and Lee Yeong-mi serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and dedication of mothers in nurturing future generations, amid broader societal challenges. As South Korea navigates its demographic shifts, initiatives promoting family welfare and support systems play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future population landscape.