Vietnam vs South Korea: economic convergence
If Vietnam grew 5.3% a year and South Korea 2.2% a year, Vietnam would catch up with South Korea on GDP per capita (PPP) in about 42 years, around 2068. This is a scenario, not a forecast.
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Latest data (2025)
| Country | GDP per capita (PPP) |
|---|---|
| Vietnam | $15,457 |
| South Korea | $55,697 |
Vietnam is at 28% of South Korea's level.
Scenario
Vietnam grows 5.3% a year (trailing 10-year average) and South Korea grows 2.2% a year (trailing 10-year average). A scenario, not a forecast: the result follows only from the stated growth rates.
| Year | Vietnam | South Korea |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $16,277 | $56,922 |
| 2031 | $21,072 | $63,466 |
| 2036 | $27,280 | $70,761 |
| 2041 | $35,317 | $78,895 |
| 2046 | $45,723 | $87,963 |
| 2051 | $59,193 | $98,074 |
| 2056 | $76,633 | $109,348 |
| 2061 | $99,210 | $121,917 |
| 2066 | $128,439 | $135,931 |
| 2068 | $142,415 | $141,978 |
| 2071 | $166,280 | $151,556 |
| 2073 | $184,373 | $158,298 |
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Source: World Bank (NY.GDP.PCAP.PP.KD). Mountain to Climb · World Bank data · Scenario: Vietnam 5.3%, South Korea 2.2%