10 Happiest Countries in Asia: Singapore, Japan Slip Down the List

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The world’s largest and most diverse continent, Asia, is a treasure trove of marvels which houses manufacturing giant China, ever-enchanting tourist magnet Japan, and thriving economic hub Singapore.

Yet, beyond its impressive landmarks and booming economies, the discussion about the happiest country in Asia continues to make a noise. As global interest in well-being and quality of life begins to rise, let’s take a deeper understanding of the topic. 

Happiest Countries in Asia 

The 2025 edition of the World Happiness Report has just unveiled its latest ranking of 147 countries worldwide. Backed by data from the Gallup World Poll, this insightful study dives deep into what makes life truly fulfilling.

It evaluates each nation through six key pillars of well-being: GDP per capita, life expectancy, social support, freedom of choice, generosity, and perceptions of corruption. 

Upon a series of comprehensive analysis, the World Happiness Report picked these ten happiest countries in Asia in 2025: 

1. Taiwan

2. Singapore 

3. Kazakhstan 

4. Vietnam 

5. Thailand 

6. Japan

7. Philippines 

8. South Korea 

9. Malaysia

10. China 

Singapore experienced a modest depletion on the ranking system, slipping to second place in Asia. After proudly holding the top spot for two consecutive years, the Lion City has now passed the crown to Taiwan, which climbed ahead to claim the 27th spot on the global scale.

The happiest country in Asia, Taiwan, has seen an annual growth rate of GDP which amounted to around 4.6 percent, according to Statista. This outstanding economic performance was due to development of high-tech industries within the country, covering the electronics sector tied to global value chains. 

The rankings blend familiar favorites with exciting newcomers, with Kazakhstan vaulted into third place, following suit after Singapore. Meanwhile, Japan and South Korea slipped a few rungs, as Vietnam and Thailand shone brightly, clinching the fourth and fifth spots among the happiest countries in Asia. 

Non-Economic Factors Behind The Happiest Countries in Asia

Above all, the happiness research rankings in 2025 also featured non-economic factors including living and eating together as well as benevolent acts impacting the overall happiness level, as highlighted by Time Out. 

Food has long been a universal language of joy, but across Asia, the simple pleasure of sharing a meal is becoming less common. In highly individualistic nations like Japan and South Korea, the rise of solo dining has led to some of the lowest rates of communal eating. 

Conversely, South Asia and Southeast Asia continue to shine with their enduring spirit of kindness. While much of the world has seen a dip in generosity, these regions have remained steady in their acts of goodwill, offering a heartening contrast in an increasingly disconnected world.

The 2025 rankings highlight that the happiest countries in Asia are not defined by wealth alone, but by a deeper blend of economic strength, social connection, and cultural values. To understand better about Asian excellency, let’s also look at the richest countries in Asia here.

Editor's Choice: The 10 Most Unsafe Countries in the World, Rife with Conflict and Chaos

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