Epidemiologic Transition in KOREA: A New Perspective in Population and Development Studies

Abstract

Relatively little attention has been given to recent mortality trends in the developing world, compared to fertility changes, yet recent information points to noticeable changes in the pace and pattern of mortality decline. The changes appear to be evolving in ways that are potentially important for health and development policies. This paper first reviews recent mortality trends and differentials in Korea, compared with the United States patterns and then considers implications of new trends for health and development policy issues in Korea.