In a bid to combat the persistent decline in population, the local government of Yeongyang County in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, is exploring innovative solutions, including a plan to attract 40 Myanmar refugees to settle in the area. According to a report by The Korea Herald, local authorities are in discussions with the Ministry of Justice to consider the possibility of providing shelter for United Nations-protected refugees in Yeongyang County. The plan, which may come to fruition as early as this year, involves converting closed schools into residential facilities, among other options.
As one official put it, “If there’s a way to prevent the decline in population, we’re willing to consider all options, including attracting refugees.” The sense of urgency is palpable, with the same official emphasizing, “We’re doing everything we can to ensure this area doesn’t disappear.” Yeongyang County has the smallest population among all districts and cities in South Korea, excluding islands. The population has been dwindling steadily, from 19,989 in January 2006 to 15,271 as of February this year. If this trend continues, the population is projected to drop below 15,000 by the end of the year.
In recent years, the local government has implemented various measures to curb the decline, such as encouraging officials to register their families and relatives as residents of Yeongyang County, as well as offering subsidies of up to 100 million won (approximately $68,000) for childbirth. Despite these efforts, the number of newborns in the county remains dismally low, with only about 25 births per year, compared to around 300 deaths. This is a far cry from two decades ago, when the county saw around 100 births and 200 deaths annually.
The stark reality is that Yeongyang County is facing a demographic crisis, with a dwindling population that threatens the very existence of the community. As the local government scrambles to find solutions, the plan to attract refugees offers a glimmer of hope. By providing a new home for those in need, the county may not only be able to stem the decline in population but also inject new life into the community. Whether this initiative will succeed remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the fate of Yeongyang County hangs in the balance, and the clock is ticking.
