2025.12. 01 就年轻人而言，近些年来，"一人户家庭"数量的不断上升。首尔科学综合研究生院大学主任教授黄菲 告诉第一财经，韩国政府也在积极应对这一现象，比如推出一些青年公寓，甚至缩小或干脆取消了厨 房的面积，因为现在便利店的餐食很受单人户群体的欢迎。 同时，她还表示，宠物尤其受到"一人户 家庭"的欢迎，韩国的地产商也顺势而为，比如推出小户型的单身公寓或整楼都只有养宠物住户的宠 物公寓。 作者 | 第一财经 潘寅茹 据韩国保健福祉部11月30日发布的最新统计数据，韩国一人户家庭数量持续上升，去年占家庭总户 数的比重首次超过36%。 具体数据显示，韩国一人户家庭数量已达到804.5万户，占比36.1%。 也就是说，当前在韩国每三户 家庭中就有一户为"一人户家庭"。 上述数据还显示，2015年这一规模为520万户（27.2%），2020 年增至664万户（31.7%），之后持续攀升。按当前趋势推算，一人户数量预计将在2027年达855万 户，2037年达971万户，至2042年逼近1千万户。 韩国学者金允俊告诉第一财经，韩国一人户家庭数量近些年来的增长，是韩国社会结构变化的缩影， "一人经济"正以前所未有的 ...

据韩国保健福祉部11月30日发布的最新统计数据，韩国一人户家庭数量持续上升，去年占家庭总户数的 比重首次超过36%。 具体数据显示，韩国一人户家庭数量已达到804.5万户，占比36.1%。也就是说，当前在韩国每三户家庭 中就有一户为"一人户家庭"。上述数据还显示，2015年这一规模为520万户（27.2%），2020年增至664 万户（31.7%），之后持续攀升。按当前趋势推算，一人户数量预计将在2027年达855万户，2037年达 971万户，至2042年逼近1千万户。 韩国学者金允俊告诉第一财经，韩国一人户家庭数量近些年来的增长，是韩国社会结构变化的缩 影，"一人经济"正以前所未有的速度渗透进韩国社会的方方面面，催生了新的消费模式。 "一人经济" 就年龄结构来看，"一人户家庭"的数量不断上升涉及年轻人与65岁及以上老年人两大群体。其中29岁以 下年轻人占比最高（19.8%），70岁以上老年人次之。 就年轻人而言，近些年来，"一人户家庭"数量的不断上升。首尔科学综合研究生院大学主任教授黄菲告 诉第一财经，韩国政府也在积极应对这一现象，比如推出一些青年公寓，甚至缩小或干脆取消了厨房的 面积，因为现在便利店的餐 ...

Core Insights - The number of single-person households in South Korea is projected to reach 8.55 million by 2027, 9.71 million by 2037, and nearly 10 million by 2042, reflecting a significant societal shift [1] - As of last year, single-person households accounted for 36.1% of all households in South Korea, marking a notable increase from 27.2% in 2015 and 31.7% in 2020 [1][3] - The rise in single-person households is attributed to changing social structures, with a notable impact on consumption patterns and the emergence of new business models [1][4] Demographic Trends - The increase in single-person households is primarily driven by two demographic groups: young individuals under 29 years old (19.8%) and seniors aged 70 and above [3] - Young people are increasingly opting for shared living arrangements and services, such as car-sharing, due to economic factors and the high costs associated with car ownership [3][4] - The number of new car registrations among individuals in their 20s has significantly declined, dropping to 2.9066 million units in the first half of 2025, representing only 5.7% of total registrations [4] Economic Implications - The demand for small-sized products, single-person dining options, and mini kitchen appliances has surged, leading to the emergence of new business sectors catering to single-person households [4] - Despite the growth of single-person households, there are signs of a potential reversal, as marriage and birth rates have shown some recovery this year [4] Aging Population Challenges - The aging population in South Korea is contributing to the rise of single-person households among the elderly, with over 10 million individuals aged 65 and above, representing 20.1% of the total population [5] - By 2052, it is estimated that 51.6% of single-person households will consist of individuals aged 65 and older, increasing the demand for social services and healthcare [5] - A recent survey indicated that only 34.2% of elderly individuals living alone consider themselves healthy, with nearly one-third reporting feelings of loneliness [5][6]

Core Insights - The "one-person economy" is becoming a significant part of the consumer market, leading to an increase in the popularity of small-packaged snacks and beverages [1] - Small-sized products are favored for their ability to provide sampling opportunities, reduce waste, and enhance portability, with health factors like low sugar and low salt also influencing consumer choices [1] - E-commerce platforms are experiencing a notable increase in sales of small-packaged retail products, with projections indicating exponential growth in small bottled beverages and lightweight snacks by 2025 [1] Industry Trends - Small bottled drinks, particularly those in 125ml and 200ml sizes, have shown outstanding sales performance during the months of July to September [1] - The trend towards smaller packaging aligns with changing consumer preferences towards healthier and more convenient options [1] - The retail landscape is adapting to these trends, with supermarkets increasingly featuring small-packaged items as new traffic drivers [1]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the article highlights the emergence of a new trend in the hot pot industry, driven by the rise of the "one-person economy" and changing consumer preferences, particularly among young people who prefer individual dining experiences [2][4] - The article notes that by 2030, the number of people living alone in China is expected to reach between 150 million to 200 million, with the highest proportion being young adults aged 20-39, indicating a significant shift in consumer demand [2] - Major restaurant chains are entering the self-service hot pot market due to three main factors: the evolution of consumer demographics, growth anxiety among companies, and the attractive market potential [2][3] Group 2 - The article discusses the competitive landscape of the hot pot market, which has formed distinct price segments: below 30 yuan is dominated by regional brands, while the mid-range market is led by giants like Haidilao and Yang Guofu, priced at 59.9 yuan [3][4] - The rise of self-service hot pot addresses modern social issues, particularly the discomfort associated with dining alone, by providing features such as independent cooking stations and transparent partitions that enhance the dining experience [2][4] - The article emphasizes that the popularity of self-service hot pot is not merely a product innovation but a response to demographic changes, with the need for personal dignity in consumption becoming a key driver for both low-end and mid-range offerings [4]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changing dynamics of women's lives in Japan, particularly focusing on the increasing number of women living independently without marriage, driven by economic stagnation and societal shifts [4][5]. Group 1: Economic Context - Japan's prolonged economic stagnation has led to a significant shift in women's life choices, with marriage no longer seen as a safety net but rather a potential risk [5]. - The employment landscape for women has deteriorated, with a high percentage (54.8%) of women in non-regular employment as of 2019, compared to 25.7% for men, leading to lower average monthly salaries [7][8]. - The average annual income for men aged 35-44 decreased by approximately 11% from 1997 to 2020, contributing to the perception that marriage is no longer financially beneficial [9]. Group 2: Changing Marriage Dynamics - The traditional path of "marriage and resignation" has shifted to a fear of job loss, with only 17.6% of non-regular female workers able to transition to permanent positions in the past five years [8]. - Among unmarried women aged 30-34, 46.2% cite the lack of a financially stable partner as a primary reason for remaining single [8]. - The concept of "working poverty" affects many single women, with an average disposable income of 2.87 million yen (approximately 140,000 RMB) per year, barely covering basic living expenses [8]. Group 3: Social and Institutional Challenges - The traditional gender roles in Japanese society have eroded, making marriage less appealing as men’s incomes stagnate and women bear the brunt of household responsibilities [9][10]. - Women spend an average of 4 hours and 3 minutes daily on household and childcare duties, while men only spend 41 minutes, leading to a "double shift" for working women [10]. - The introduction of the "pension division system" in 2014 has provided some financial security for divorced women, but single-parent households still face a high relative poverty rate of 50.6% [10]. Group 4: Systemic Inequities - Japan's welfare system primarily supports families, leaving single, divorced, or childless women at a disadvantage, often referred to as a "systemic single tax" [12][13]. - Single women face higher tax burdens due to the lack of benefits available to married individuals, and they receive lower pension benefits [12]. - By 2040, it is projected that 35% of women aged 65 and older will live alone, with a significantly higher poverty rate compared to their male counterparts [12]. Group 5: Conclusion and Future Outlook - The article emphasizes that while women in Japan have gained more choices, these freedoms come with increased risks and lack of support [15][16]. - A call for a social safety net that does not rely on marriage is highlighted as essential for ensuring that all individuals, regardless of marital status, have security in times of need [16].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changing dynamics of marriage and singlehood among women in Japan, highlighting the economic and social factors that influence their choices and the resulting implications for their lives and well-being [4][5][6]. Group 1: Economic Context - Japan's prolonged economic stagnation has led to a significant shift in women's life choices, with the lifetime unmarried rate for women projected to approach 30% by 2035 [6]. - The traditional view of marriage as a safety net has transformed into a perception of risk, as many women weigh the costs and benefits of marriage against their economic stability [7]. - The employment landscape has changed drastically since the 1990s, with women often relegated to non-regular employment, resulting in lower average salaries and job security compared to men [9][10]. Group 2: Changing Marriage Dynamics - The historical norm of "marriage followed by resignation" has shifted to a reluctance to resign from jobs due to the fear of losing economic independence [11]. - Many women cite the lack of a financially stable partner as a primary reason for remaining unmarried, with 46.2% of unmarried women aged 30-34 identifying this as a key factor [11]. - The burden of household responsibilities remains disproportionately on women, leading to a "double shift" where they manage both professional and domestic duties [16]. Group 3: Social Security and Support Systems - Japan's social security system is primarily designed around the family unit, leaving single women at a disadvantage in terms of tax benefits and pension entitlements [20][21]. - The concept of a "single tax" emerges, where unmarried women face higher tax burdens and lower social security benefits compared to their married counterparts [21]. - The increasing number of elderly single women is projected to face higher poverty rates, exacerbated by their longer life expectancy and lower lifetime earnings [21][22]. Group 4: Implications of Freedom and Autonomy - While women in Japan have gained more choices regarding marriage and career, this newfound freedom does not come with adequate support or security [25]. - The article emphasizes that the autonomy women experience is often a forced choice, leading to increased risks and uncertainties in their lives [26]. - The narrative of older women living in poverty highlights the systemic failures in providing adequate support for those who choose or are forced into singlehood [27][28].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of mini-sized products in the food and beverage industry, highlighting how this innovation caters to modern consumer preferences for smaller portions and lower psychological burdens associated with consumption [5]. Group 1: Mini Products in the Market - Mini-sized ice creams and snacks have gained popularity, with products like the 42g mini chocolate cone from Hema and 30g ice bricks from Bright becoming consumer favorites due to their small size and low calorie count [6][11]. - Coca-Cola China has introduced a 248ml pocket bottle and a 200ml mini can, aiming to lower the initial purchase barrier for consumers concerned about spending, which has contributed to a market rebound [12][13]. - The trend extends to alcoholic beverages, with mini bottles of spirits becoming popular in convenience stores, allowing consumers to enjoy cocktails at home with smaller quantities [14][15]. Group 2: Economic and Psychological Factors - The mini packaging strategy allows companies to increase unit pricing despite lower overall prices, as seen with Coca-Cola's pricing on different bottle sizes [22]. - Smaller portion sizes help reduce the psychological burden of consuming high-calorie products, making them more appealing to health-conscious consumers [24]. - The production of mini products requires significant R&D investment to adjust recipes and cooking times, but the overall market demand for lower-priced, smaller items justifies this investment [24]. Group 3: Changing Demographics and Consumption Patterns - The rise of single-person households in China, projected to reach 150 to 200 million by 2030, drives demand for single-serving products [31]. - Companies are adapting to these demographic shifts by offering smaller packaging sizes, as seen with Aldi's adjustment of milk packaging to meet the needs of smaller households [33]. - The trend of mini products reflects a broader shift towards "one-person economy" lifestyles, where consumers seek variety and lower individual burdens in their purchases [34].

Group 1: Mini Products Trend - The concept of "mini" represents an extreme form of the one-person economy, offering a wider selection of products with lower individual burdens [1][25] - Mini products, such as 42g ice cream cones and 30g ice bricks, cater to consumers seeking smaller portions with less psychological burden [2][5] - The trend of miniaturization in food and beverages is gaining momentum, with companies like Coca-Cola introducing smaller packaging to appeal to modern consumers [6][7] Group 2: Market Impact and Consumer Behavior - Coca-Cola's introduction of a 248ml pocket bottle and 200ml mini cans has led to a market revival, with a 2.5% revenue increase in 2023 [8] - The miniaturization trend is also evident in alcoholic beverages, with smaller bottles becoming popular for home cocktail mixing [9][11] - The shift towards mini products aligns with changing consumer behaviors, particularly among younger generations who are drinking less and prefer smaller social gatherings [13][14] Group 3: Economic and Health Considerations - Mini products can serve as a pricing strategy, allowing companies to maintain or increase profit margins despite lower unit prices [15][16] - The demand for single-serving products is rising due to the increasing number of single-person households in China, projected to reach 150-200 million by 2030 [23][25] - Mini products provide a way for consumers to indulge in treats without excessive caloric intake, catering to a growing health-conscious market [26]

Group 1 - A notable consumer trend is emerging where individuals are increasingly willing to spend on "emotions," leading to high prices for seemingly trivial items and a large market for intangible needs [1][3] - The consumption in the "土味爽剧" (local flavor short dramas) sector has reached 50.4 billion, surpassing the 42.5 billion spent by young people on movies, indicating a shift in spending patterns among different demographics [3] - The rise of single individuals and the elderly population, which together account for approximately 600 million people in China, is driving a new consumption phenomenon focused on personal spending [3][8] Group 2 - The formation of the single population is closely linked to changes in production methods and social structures, where marriage has shifted from a production tool to a consumption burden, leading to a unique consumption logic that prioritizes emotional spending [4] - As basic living costs decrease, more funds are being allocated to sectors that promote happiness, such as the pet economy and virtual companionship, which are emerging as new economic growth points [5] - The elderly population, now with retirement funds and free time, is engaging in various hobbies and interests, reflecting a significant shift in their consumption behavior towards emotional fulfillment [8] Group 3 - The emergence of "emotional value" as a third type of value, alongside use value and exchange value, highlights the psychological satisfaction derived from products, indicating a shift in consumer priorities [8] - The rise of the emotional economy is supported by changes in economic foundations, the independence of 600 million consumers, and advancements in technology such as big data and algorithms [8] - The market's role in providing solutions for emotional needs raises questions about societal progress, suggesting that while not perfect, it offers a means for individuals to cope with modern loneliness [9]