- Surpasses 3.03 million as of March, marking the largest growth among Korea's 17 metropolitan and provincial governments in Q1 -

- Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok: “A result of citizen-focused policies and consistent innovation” -

Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) continues to experience steady population growth, surpassing 3.03 million as of March 2025. Amid a nationwide trend of population decline, Incheon stands out with a growth trajectory like no other.

As of March 2025, the city’s registered population reached 3,031,361, reflecting an increase of 3,507 from February and a total rise of 10,351 in the first quarter. This marks the highest population growth among Korea’s 17 metropolitan and provincial jurisdictions. 

In particular, the number of infants and toddlers aged 0 to 4 grew by 411, while residents aged 30 to 39 increased by 2,464 since the beginning of 2025. This positive trend is largely attributed to Incheon’s expanded support for childbirth and childcare, alongside its robust housing and transportation policies, which have encouraged young families to settle and thrive in the city.

Incheon has also continued to lead the nation in birth rate growth since 2024. In January 2025, 1,547 births were recorded in Incheon, accounting for 6.5% of the national total of 23,947. This figure represents an 18.9% year-over-year increase and a 31.3% rise from December 2024. 

In March, the city unveiled three additional birth-support initiatives: i-Plus Link Dream (couple matching), i-Plus Tie Dream (customized wedding support), and i-Plus Raise Dream (housing assistance). These programs complement Incheon's existing initiatives—i-Plus 100 Million Dream, i-Plus Home Dream (₩1,000 Housing), and i-Plus Fare Dream—bringing the total to six Incheon-style birth support programs. This comprehensive and systematic approach reflects Incheon’s long-term commitment to supporting young people and families. By covering every stage—from relationships and marriage to childrearing—the city is actively promoting childbirth and population sustainability.

In particular, the ₩1,000 Housing program, which offers monthly rent at just KRW 30,000 (KRW 1,000 per day), garnered widespread attention. During the application period from March 6 to 14, a total of 3,679 households applied for 500 available units, resulting in a 7.36:1 competition ratio, which underscores citizens’ high level of interest and demand. 

Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok stated, “Incheon’s unprecedented population growth is a direct result of our distinctive birth policies and ongoing innovation. We will continue striving to make Incheon a leading, world-class city where young people, newlyweds, families, and all citizens can lead happy lives.”