The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) on Thursday urged South Korea to pursue coordinated structural reforms across fiscal policy, taxation, education and regional development, arguing that the country’s long-term growth model is coming under increasing strain from a rapidly aging population and persistent demographic decline. In its 2026 Economic Survey of Korea, the Paris-based organization projected GDP growth of 2.6% this year before moderating to 1.9% in 2027, while warning that the conflict in the Middle East has increased downside risks to the economic outlook through higher energy prices and greater geopolitical uncertainty.

The report recommends strengthening