How is Kim Jong-un framing North Korea’s falling birth rates as a shared duty?

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Kim Jong-un Frames Falling Birth Rates as a Collective Responsibility

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has characterized the challenge of declining birth rates as a matter of "everyone's housekeeping," emphasizing that addressing this issue and ensuring good childcare are collective duties that require the involvement of mothers. These remarks were made during an event for mothers held in Pyongyang on Sunday, as reported by state media KCNA. Kim conveyed that he personally considers the contributions of mothers when undertaking state affairs, acknowledging their role in bolstering national strength.
Collective Duty for Mothers and State

Kim Jong-un articulated that "Preventing a decline in birth rates and good childcare are all of our housekeeping duties we need to handle while working with mothers." This framing positions the responsibility not solely on women but as a shared undertaking involving the entire society, with mothers at the forefront of this effort. He expressed that his own engagement with party and state work is consistently influenced by thoughts of mothers.
Acknowledging Mothers' Contribution to National Power

During the event, Kim Jong-un extended his gratitude to mothers for their significant role in strengthening North Korea's national power. He specifically stated that he "always think[s] about mothers when I have a hard time dealing with the party and the state’s work," highlighting their perceived importance in the nation's overall development and stability.
Broader Context of Declining Fertility Rates

The United Nations Population Fund estimates North Korea's fertility rate to be 1.8 as of 2023, a figure that has been declining over recent decades. While this rate remains higher than some neighbouring countries, such as South Korea (0.78 in 2022) and Japan (1.26), the trend of dwindling birth rates presents a shared demographic concern across the region. These demographic shifts have led to various societal responses, including shortages of healthcare professionals and initiatives to encourage higher birth rates.

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How is Kim Jong-un framing North Korea’s falling birth rates as a shared duty?

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