Evaluating Housing Policy Effects on Childbirth Intentions in South Korea: Preferences, Benefits, and Policy Implications

South Korea is experiencing an unprecedented decline in birth rates, prompting the government to expand various forms of support, with housing assistance requiring the largest budget allocation. Given this substantial financial investment, it is essential to evaluate the impact of housing policies on childbirth intentions. This study examines the housing preferences of unmarried young adults who are potential beneficiaries of government support and analyzes anticipated changes in their childbirth intentions when provided with housing assistance. Based on an online survey of 310 participants, the findings indicate that housing loans are the most preferred policy, followed by the special supply of presale housing. Respondents overwhelmingly reported that their intention to have children would increase if their preferred housing support were provided, with the special supply of presale housing having the greatest effect. Additionally, the study highlights that young adults prioritize housing quality and a safe living environment over affordability alone. The results further reveal that nonmetropolitan residents, older respondents, and those with strong pro-natalist values are the most responsive to housing support. By offering empirical evidence from the South Korean context, this study contributes to international discussions on housing policies and fertility, emphasizing the necessity of targeted policy interventions to effectively address the low birthrate crisis.