首次跌破1.2，日本彻底躺平了

Core Viewpoint - Japan's birth rate has fallen below 700,000, reaching this milestone 15 years earlier than previously expected, raising concerns about the country's demographic future [3][5]. Demographic Trends - To maintain population stability, a birth rate of 2.1 is necessary, but Japan's current rate is only 1.26, with China at 1.18 and South Korea at 0.78, indicating a significant decline in East Asia [4][5]. - Japan's total population is less than one-tenth of China's, with only 700,000 newborns annually, highlighting the severity of the situation [9]. Historical Context - Japan has been aware of its declining birth rate since around 1990, with no significant recovery since then [10][11]. - The population structure has shifted since 2005, with the death rate exceeding the birth rate, leading to an aging population that now constitutes 27% of the total [27][28]. Government Response - The Japanese government has implemented various policies since the 1990s, including the "Angel Plan" in 1994 and the "Basic Law on Measures for a Declining Birthrate" in 2003, aimed at encouraging childbirth and supporting families [23][25]. - Despite these efforts, the effectiveness of these policies has been questioned, as the birth rate continues to decline [26]. Societal Changes - There is a growing trend of individuals choosing not to have children, with 33.4% of women and an increasing number of men opting for lifelong singlehood [32][33]. - The rise of "one-person economies" reflects a societal shift where individuals find fulfillment in single lifestyles rather than traditional family structures [15][17]. Future Outlook - Experts suggest that Japan may need to adapt its perspective on population decline, focusing on the potential benefits of a smaller population, such as higher employment rates and changes in work culture [41][47]. - The introduction of foreign labor could help mitigate workforce shortages, as Japan remains relatively open to foreign workers despite limited immigration policies [45][46]. Conclusion - Japan faces a critical demographic challenge with low birth rates and an aging population, prompting a reevaluation of societal norms and government strategies to address these issues [42][51].