This chart compares the average life expectancy in South Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan from 1950 to 2024. Over this period, Japan has maintained the highest life expectancy, with South Korea and Taiwan also showing significant increases. China has demonstrated a steady rise. The improvements in each country's life expectancy can be attributed to advancements in health and medical policies and better living conditions.
Comparison of Average Life Expectancy in South Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan, 1950 to 2024
This chart compares the average life expectancy in South Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan from 1950 to 2024.
Average life expectancy refers to the average number of years that a person in a particular population is expected to live from birth. It is influenced by factors such as the quality of healthcare, living conditions, and social determinants.
In China, the average life expectancy rose from 43.74 years in 1950 to 78.99 years in 2024, marking an increase of 180.60%. This growth can be attributed to China’s economic development and enhanced accessibility to health and medical services, allowing the majority of the population to enjoy healthier and longer lives. Various health policies have been implemented to facilitate this progress.
Taiwan also made substantial progress, with life expectancy increasing from 55.67 years in 1950 to 81.66 years in 2024, a 146.70% increase. Effective healthcare systems and public health policies have been crucial in achieving these results in Taiwan.
Japan saw its life expectancy rise from 59.23 years in 1950 to 85.08 years in 2024, an increase of 143.64%. Long known for having one of the highest life expectancies in the world, Japan’s success can be credited to advanced medical technology, high health consciousness among its population, and effective diet management.
The most remarkable transformation has been observed in South Korea, where life expectancy surged from a mere 21.31 years in 1950 to 84.26 years in 2024, an increase of 395.35%. This exceptional growth rate, which is notable even on a global scale, has been achieved through rapid economic development post-war, coupled with significant improvements in the quality of healthcare services.
These statistics demonstrate how different nations have enhanced their healthcare systems and promoted the health of their populations, leading to increased average life expectancies. They also provide important lessons for policymakers on managing challenges associated with an aging population.
| Rank | Name | Indicator |
|---|---|---|
1 | Japan | 85.08 yrs old |
2 | South Korea | 84.26 yrs old |
3 | Taiwan | 81.66 yrs old |
4 | China | 78.99 yrs old |