AbstractImportanceDetailed incidence data for cataract surgery in the general population are limited, yet important for determining the surgical needs of the community and formulation of healthcare policies.BackgroundTo report incidence rates of cataract surgery in South Korea.DesignNationwide, retrospective population‐based study.ParticipantsThis study involved the entire population of South Korea (n = 47 990 761); 2 236 107 eyes of 1 591 176 patients confirmed as having cataract surgery from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2015 were included.MethodsData for all patients who underwent primary cataract surgery in South Korea were retrieved using Korean Electronic Data Interchange and Korean Standard Classification of Diseases‐7 codes. Annual incidence rates were calculated and adjusted to the national population data for the corresponding year.Main Outcome MeasuresThe average incidence of cataract surgery during the 5‐year study period was estimated using population data from the 2010 Korean census.ResultsThe incidence of cataract surgery increased from 8.54/1000 person‐years in 2011 to 9.67/1000 person‐years in 2015. The probability of second‐eye surgery within 12 months after the first‐eye surgery increased from 42.98% in 2011 to 48.01% in 2015. In total, 85.72% of surgeries were performed in non‐rural areas: 43.18% in individuals with a higher household income and 76.65% in primary healthcare centres. The rate of vitrectomy for posterior capsular rupture was 0.72%.Conclusions and RelevanceThe incidence of cataract surgery in South Korea is increasing over time. Our findings are expected to aid in the formulation of future healthcare policies concerning cataract surgery in South Korea.