Big Take Asia Having a Baby? This Company Will Give You $72,000
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Oct 14, 2025 South Korean companies are offering staggering tax-free bonuses to encourage childbirth, with one worker receiving $72,000. Despite these incentives, the country grapples with a fertility rate of just 0.75 births per woman, raising questions about long-term solutions. The discussion includes comparisons to parental policies in Hong Kong and Japan, and the need for cultural shifts towards gender equity. Experts debate whether cash alone can reverse the trend, emphasizing that structural changes in workplace flexibility and shared responsibilities are crucial.
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Worker Wins Big Baby Bonus
- Honggi, a 37-year-old father, received $72,000 from his employer after his second child and another $72,000 retroactively for his first child.
- The payout let the family move to a bigger house and consider having a third child.
Demographic Risk To Economy And Security
- South Korea's fertility rate is 0.75 births per woman, the lowest globally, and the population may shrink by almost a third by 2072.
- Declining births threaten the workforce, tax revenue, and military recruitment in Korea.
Founder Announces Surprise Payout
- Booyoung's 84-year-old founder surprised employees by announcing a 100 million won ($72,000) baby bonus applicable to births within the past three years.
- Recipients cried and celebrated; payments are tax-free and unconditional.