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An Insider’s Look at Korean Dating Culture.
Korea is often known for its unique pop culture and K-dramas. However, did you know that Korea also has a distinct dating culture?
Whether you’re a foreigner looking to date a Korean or you’re a Korean yourself, here’s what you need to know about Korean dating culture!
1) Parents still play a big role.
In many Western countries, it’s not uncommon for couples to meet and start dating without involving their parents.
However, in Korea, parents (especially older generations) still have a say in who their children date.
It’s not uncommon for Koreans to ask their parent’s permission before going on a date!
2) Group dates are the norm.
If you’re used to going on one-on-one dates, then you might be surprised to know that group dates are actually more common in Korea.
This is because Koreans generally prefer getting to know someone within a group setting before committing to a one-on-one date.
So if you’re ever invited to go on a group date while in Korea, don’t be alarmed—it’s totally normal!
3) Physical touch is often avoided.
Koreans are generally quite reserved when it comes to physical touch, especially between members of the opposite sex.
In fact, it’s considered rude to initiate physical contact with someone you’re not close to!
So if you’re on a date with a Korean and they don’t make any physical contact with you (e.g. holding your hand, etc.), don’t take it personally—they’re just following social norms.
4) Group dates are the norm.
If you’re used to going on one-on-one dates, then you might be surprised to know that group dates are more common in Korea.
This is because Koreans generally prefer getting to know someone within a group setting before committing to a one-on-one date.
So if you’re ever invited to go on a group date while in Korea, don’t be alarmed—it’s totally normal!
Differences Between Dating in Korea and Dating in Other Countries.
If you’re a foreigner seeking to date in Korea, there are some things you should know.
From language barriers to cultural differences, there are a few things that can trip you up while dating in Korea.
Age matters.
The first thing to know about dating in Korea is that, Yes, the age difference matters. In Korea, it is customary for the man to be older than the woman.
In fact, many Korean women prefer to date older men. So if you’re a foreign man looking to date in Korea, make sure you’re comfortable with the age difference.
Public Displays of Attention (PDA).
Age isn’t the only thing that’s different about dating in Korea. The way couples show their affection for each other is also different.
While in other countries it is common for couples to publicly display their affection for each other, such as kissing or holding hands, this is generally considered taboo in Korea.
So if you’re used to being more hands-on with your partner in public, be prepared to keep your hands to yourself in Korea.
Sex.
Finally, another difference between dating in Korea and other countries is that Koreans are generally more conservative when it comes to sex.
While in other countries it is not uncommon for couples to have sex on their first date, this is generally not considered proper etiquette in Korea.
Instead, Koreans tend to wait until they are in a serious relationship before they have sex.
So if you’re thinking about taking things to the next level with your Korean partner, make sure you’re on the same page about what “serious” means.
Dating in any country can be challenging, but dating in Korea comes with its own unique set of difficulties.
From language barriers to cultural differences, there are a few things that can trip you up while dating in Korea.
5 Ways Dating in Korea is Different from Anywhere Else.
So you’ve started dating a Korean girl... or perhaps you’re still only dreaming about it.
But once you’ve dated a Korean girl, you’ll never go back.
There really is no comparison.
Here are just five ways that Korean dating culture is different from anywhere else…
1. You’ll Be Expected to Dress Up and Spend a Lot of Money on Dates.
In Korea, it’s all about fashion. Whether you’re a guy or a girl, you’ll be expected to dress up and look your best on dates.
That means no more wearing your ratty old college t-shirt and jeans; it’s time to invest in some nice clothes.
And be prepared to spend some serious cash while you’re at it; clothes, hair, and makeup can be very expensive in Korea.
2. You Might Not Meet Your Date’s Parents Until You’re Ready to Get Serious.
In most Western countries, it’s not uncommon for couples to meet each other’s parents fairly early on in the relationship.
But in Korea, it’s often not until you’re ready to get married that you’ll meet your partner’s parents.
So don’t be surprised if your first meeting with the in-laws is at a formal dinner or family event!
3. Physical Intimacy Comes Later in Relationships Here.
Koreans tend to be a lot more conservative than people from other countries when it comes to physical intimacy.
This is especially true for women; many Korean girls won’t even hold hands with their boyfriends in public, let alone kiss them!
Of course, this varies from couple to couple, but generally speaking, Koreans tend to take things slow when it comes to physical affection.
4. You May Not Spend as Much Time Together as You’re Used To…At First
As I mentioned before, many Koreans are quite conservative when it comes to physical intimacy.
That means that couples often don’t spend a lot of time alone together during the early stages of their relationships.
Instead, they’ll go on group dates with friends or colleagues, or they’ll go out with other couples (Double dates are quite popular here!).
Once you’re married or living together, things will be different of course; but early on in relationships, don’t expect too much one-on-one time.
5. …But You’ll Probably Become Closer Faster Than You Expect.
Even though couples might not spend as much time together at first, they often become closer very quickly.
Koreans have a saying: “Couples who pray together stay together.”
What this means is that couples who do things like attend church or temple together often have strong relationships because they share common values and beliefs.
So even if you’re not religious, attending religious functions with your partner can help you become closer!
If you’re thinking about dating a Korean girl (or boy), there are some things you should know about Korean dating culture!
From spending lots of money on dates to becoming close very quickly, there are some ways that dating here is different from anywhere else.
But even though it might be different, dating in Korea can be a lot of fun, especially if you know what to expect!
The Popularity of Dating Apps in Korea.
Korea is a country with a rich culture and strict social hierarchy. Despite this, Korea is also a country that is rapidly changing and adapting to the modern world.
This can be seen in the growing popularity of dating apps in Korea.
Dating apps are increasing in popularity with Korean singles of all ages. While used by all ages, the 20-30s age bracket is the most active users.
The most popular app used in Korea is Tinder, which was installed on 1.4 million phones in 2019 alone.
The next most popular app is OkCupid, followed by coffee meets bagel and Bumble.
These apps are all Western applications that have been adapted for use in Korea.
While dating apps are becoming more popular, they still face some challenges in Korea.
The first challenge is the convenience store culture. In Korea, convenience stores are everywhere and many people turn to them for their meals instead of cooking at home.
This leaves little time for dating.
The second challenge is technology itself. With so many people working long hours, it can be difficult to find time to meet someone organically without using a dating app.
Despite these challenges, dating apps are increasing in popularity and helping Koreans meet potential partners.
Some experts even predict that by 2030, 60% of marriages will start from online meetings.
So if you’re looking for love in Korea, don’t be afraid to download a dating app!
Conclusion.
We hope this has given you a glimpse into Korean dating culture! Just remember that every country is different and that there is no “right” way to date.
The most important thing is to be respectful of the person you’re dating and their culture. Who knows, you might even learn something new about your own culture in the process!