South Africa is a country in Southern Africa, Africa. In 2025 it has about 64.7 million people (UN estimate), the 24th most people of the 193 UN member states.
UN member since 1945Population: 24th
South Africa南アフリカ
Region
Southern Africa, Africa
Population
about 64.7 million (24th)
Area
1,221,037 km² (23rd)
UN member since
November 7, 1945
Ranks are among the 193 UN member states, from most people and from largest area.
South Africa in numbers
In 2025 the population is about 64.7 million, the 24th most people of the 193 UN member states. That is about 1/1 of Japan’s (about 123 million).
The area is 1,221,037 km², the 23rd largest of the 193. That is about 3.2 times Japan’s area.
If we work out the number of people per square kilometer (population density), it is about 53.
Joining the United Nations
South Africa joined the United Nations on November 7, 1945.
It was a member before Japan joined in 1956.
Countries that joined on the same day: Mexico.
Think about it
Q1Compare South Africa’s population rank and area rank. What do you notice?
Q2Find South Africa on a map or globe. Which countries are around it?
Q3Choose one thing you want to know more about South Africa, and look it up.
There is no single right answer. Talking it over with someone at home is a good way to learn.
Did you know? — There are 5 UN member states in Southern Africa. The one with the most people is South Africa.