From Jakarta to Seoul, inside the world’s 10 most populous cities
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs has released its latest report - World Urbanisation Prospects 2025: Summary of Results, which throws light on the world’s most populous cities. This year, Jakarta took the number one spot after overtaking Tokyo, which had held the position for many years
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With an urban population of nearly 42 million, Jakarta is now the world’s most populous city. It has overtaken Japan's Tokyo this year. This explosive growth highlights Indonesia’s rapid urbanisation and the rise of megacities in Southeast Asia. Reuters
Dhaka is the second-most populous city, with almost 40 million residents. The city’s rapid expansion reflects mass internal migration, growing economic opportunity, and mounting pressure on housing, infrastructure, and sustainability. Reuters
Tokyo remains a global megacity with around 33 million people. Despite its mature infrastructure and slowing growth, it continues to serve as a major economic, cultural, and political hub. Reuters
New Delhi has grown to more than 30 million people. It’s a magnet for migrants and business, but faces major challenges in urban planning, air quality, and livability. Reuters
China's Shanghai is home to 29.6 million inhabitants, according to the UN report, and remains a global economic powerhouse and a symbol of China’s rapid urban development and modernisation in the 21st century. Reuters
Another Chinese city Guangzhou, has secured the sixth position on the list with an urban population estimated at 27.6 million. Situated in the Pearl River Delta, it’s a manufacturing and trade engine, contributing significantly to China’s export-driven growth. Reuters
The only non-Asian city on the list is Cairo with a population of about 25.6 million people. It illustrates rapid urbanisation in North Africa and underscores major challenges around infrastructure and service delivery. Reuters
Manila has approximately 24.7 million inhabitants, making it one of Southeast Asia’s densest and fastest-growing megacities. It faces urban challenges such as congestion, housing, and climate risks. AFP
Kolkata has around 22.5 million people. Known for its historical and cultural significance, the city is also a major economic and educational centre amid growing urban pressures. Reuters
Seoul is estimated at 22.5 million people according to the WUP 2025. The city blends advanced technology, strong infrastructure, and a high standard of living, even though growth is seen to be slow. AFP