North Korea is one of the world’s most mysterious countries, and its population is no exception. North Korea is one of the few remaining countries in the world that is still closed off to the public, making it incredibly difficult to know exactly what the population is inside the borders. There are many factors that make it hard to get a clear number on the population, but through research and resources, a small picture of what the population in the country may look like can be gained.
According to the UK-based World Population Review, the population of North Korea is estimated at 25 million people. The report also found that this population is largely concentrated in the urban areas, where two-thirds of the population lives. Approximately 28% of the population resides in the capital city of Pyongyang. Additionally, fewer than 2,000 people per square mile live in North Korea, compared to the world average of over 400 people per square mile. This could be an indication of the low population in the rural areas of the country.
It’s important to note that the numbers provided by the World Population Review are just estimates, as no reliable census data is available due to North Korea’s secretive nature. The lack of public data also contributes to the difficulty in obtaining a precise population figure, as there is no way to verify the accuracy of the numbers being reported.
“It is very difficult to accurately estimate the North Korean population because North Korea does not release official census data,” said Dr. Katherine Moon, professor at the US-based think tank the East-West Center. “Without access to reliable population data from the country, much of the information we have is unreliable or outdated.”
It is also thought that the population in North Korea has been declining in recent years, a trend that has been attributed to the country’s poor economy. Despite the country’s isolation and sanctions, North Korea is still one of the most heavily militarized nations in the world. This is a factor that has been cited as a possible cause for the population decline.
In addition to the lack of reliable population data, there are other factors that make it difficult to estimate the population in North Korea. This includes the country’s limited access to information and resources, as well as its restrictions on freedom of movement. All of these factors contribute to the overall uncertainty of how many people actually live in the country.
Fertility Rates
According to reports, the fertility rate in North Korea is currently at 1.96 children per woman, which is below the replacement rate of 2.1. The low fertility rate can be attributed to a number of factors, including access to contraception and the rising cost of living.
Furthermore, North Korean women are said to have the third highest rate of suicide in the world, due to fear of violence and a lack of reproductive rights. These issues are thought to have had a major impact on the fertility rate, and thus the population, in North Korea.
Migration
It is also believed that migration has had an effect on the population in North Korea. There are reports that suggest that thousands of North Koreans have escaped to South Korea and other countries in recent years in search of a better life. This may also have an impact on the population, as fewer people may be entering the country than leaving it.
There are also reports that foreign workers from other countries may be entering North Korea for economic opportunities. However, like with the population figures, it is difficult to get an accurate number on how many people are entering and leaving the country.
Recent Developments
In the past few years, North Korea has started to become more open to foreign investment and has begun to invite people from other countries to visit. This has led to a slight loosening of the restrictions on people entering and leaving the country. In 2017, North Korea opened its borders to foreign tourists, in what many viewed as a move towards greater openness.
Some experts have argued that this move could lead to an increase in the population in North Korea. However, the extent to which this could happen is largely unknown, as it is not clear how many people may take up the opportunity to visit or stay in the country.
Life Expectancy
North Korea currently has one of the lowest life expectancies in the world, with males averaging at 69.6 years and females at 75.4 years. This number is significantly lower than the global average of 72.6 for men and 77 for women. Additionally, the mortality rate for children under five in North Korea is much higher than in other countries, with the UN estimating that one in ten children will not reach their fifth birthday.
The low life expectancy in the country can be attributed to a number of factors, including malnutrition, poor healthcare and a lack of access to clean water and sanitation. Furthermore, the poor economy in North Korea has made it difficult for many families to afford necessary health care and access to resources.
Access to Resources
Many have argued that the population in North Korea is not just determined by the number of people living in the country, but also by the amount of resources available. Despite the country’s isolation, reports suggest that North Korea is still suffering from a food shortage, with many families unable to access the necessary resources to live a healthy life. This can lead to malnutrition and even starvation, which can have a direct impact on the population.
Additionally, access to medical supplies, healthcare and clean water are also limited in North Korea, and these shortages have had a direct impact on the population. For example, a 2018 UN report found that one in three North Koreans are malnourished and the infant mortality rate is significantly higher than the global average.
Political Instability
Political instability has been one of the biggest factors affecting the population in North Korea in recent years. The country has been ruled by the same family since its founding, and tensions between the North and South have been high for decades.
This political uncertainty has had an effect on the population in North Korea, as many fear being persecuted or even arrested for their political views. This fear has pushed many to flee the country, leading to an even greater strain on the population.
Economy
It is estimated that North Korea’s economy is about one-fifth the size of South Korea’s, meaning the average North Korean has fewer resources available than the average South Korean. As a result, many North Koreans have had to resort to extreme measures in order to survive, such as joining the military or becoming a part of the black market. This has contributed to the poor quality of life in North Korea, and has pushed many to try and leave the country.
Additionally, North Korea’s poor economy has put a strain on its public resources, leading to a deterioration in public services such as education and healthcare. This, in turn, has had a negative impact on the population, as it has made it increasingly difficult for families to access the resources necessary for a healthy and secure life.
