Harmony in diplomacy, convergence in choices: Low fertility diffusion through Sino‐Korean normalization

Abstract

Does fertility preference spill over to other countries? This paper investigates the influence of South Korea's exceptionally low fertility rate on neighboring China, particularly the Korean Chinese community. Through an analysis of historical events, including the diplomatic restoration between China and South Korea in 1992, it examines how this reconciliation affected fertility and marriage rates among Korean Chinese. The findings reveal a notable decline in both fertility and marriage rates post‐reconnection, suggesting a potential adoption of South Korea's fertility norms within the Korean Chinese community.