Analysis: The Rise of single-person households in South Korea

Demographic trends will shape South Korea’s future more than North Korea

Topic: The Rise of single-person households in South Korea

Event or Trend: Single-person households in South Korea are set to peak in 2041, with the elderly population driving the majority of this growth.

Significance: South Korea's demographic and household structures are undergoing a major transformation, with single-person households expected to peak in 2041 at 24.37 million, and by 2052, these households will account for 41.3% of the total. 

This shift has profound implications for the country's economy, social services, and consumer behavior. With an increasing number of elderly individuals living alone, policymakers and businesses need to address the rising demand for healthcare services, senior-friendly housing, and part-time job opportunities. At the same time, the growing number of single women leading households is expected to impact industries ranging from consumer goods to personal services. 

These trends will shape South Korea’s future industrial landscape and labor market, making it essential for government officials and business leaders to prepare for the evolving needs of single-person households.

Analysis: According to Statistics Korea’s latest projections for 2022 to 2052, the number of single-person households is set to peak in 2041, a revision from previous estimates that predicted a peak in 2039. The total number of households will grow from 22.18 million in 2022 to 24.37 million by 2041 before starting to decline. This growth is fueled largely by the transition from multi-person families to single-person households, despite the overall population decline that began in 2020​.

One of the most significant contributors to this trend is the rapid increase in elderly single-person households. By 2052, those aged 65 and older will make up more than half of all single-person households, with their numbers expected to rise from 1.93 million in 2022 to 4.96 million by 2052—a 2.58-fold increase​. The aging population and increased life expectancy are central to this shift. Many elderly individuals are choosing to live independently, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, when many opted to leave group facilities such as nursing homes to live on their own. This has driven up the proportion of elderly-led single-person households, which is projected to exceed 40% by 2037.

This demographic shift has significant economic implications. Single-person households, particularly elderly ones, tend to consume more necessities, durable goods like furniture and appliances, and rely heavily on household services since they have no one to share responsibilities with. As the number of elderly individuals living alone rises, so will the demand for part-time jobs tailored to seniors and healthcare services, including home care and medical devices designed for independent living​. This creates a clear need for businesses to adjust their strategies to cater to these consumers, while the government will need to ramp up support for elder care services and affordable housing solutions.

In addition to the elderly, there is also a notable rise in single-person households headed by unmarried women. The proportion of unmarried women leading these households is expected to increase steadily from 26% in 2022 to over 30% by 2043 and further to 32.5% by 2052. This reflects a broader social trend where more women are choosing to remain single and live independently​. These women, like elderly individuals, are likely to drive demand for consumer goods, services, and part-time work opportunities that cater to their unique lifestyles.

Despite the country’s record-low birthrate and shrinking population, the number of households is growing faster than previously anticipated, largely due to the shift toward single-person households. This demographic evolution will reshape South Korea’s consumer market, with a greater focus on products and services for individuals living alone. The healthcare, housing, and personal services sectors will need to adapt to meet the rising demand from these households, especially those led by the elderly.

Outlook: South Korea's increasing number of single-person households, particularly among the elderly and unmarried women, will continue to shape the country’s economic and social landscape. Businesses that cater to the needs of these individuals, such as senior-friendly housing, healthcare services, and part-time employment opportunities, will see growth. The government will also need to focus on strengthening social safety nets, healthcare infrastructure, and housing policies to accommodate the demands of this rapidly growing demographic.