Dear MEL Topic Readers,
For many young South Koreans, dating is too
expensive, or too dangerous
South Korea is now one of the world’s least fertile
nations by marking below one child per woman in 2018. This low fertility isn’t
traditional but new as the figure used to be close to three four decades ago. The
major reason is the increasing number of unmarried young people. In 2015, over
37% of women aged 30-34 were unmarried, up from around 10% in the millennium
year. Also, the number of unmarried young people aged between 20 and 44 who are
in relationships is declining, only 26% of men and 32% of women. Why young South
Koreans aren’t dating, marrying, or making children as much as they used to?
That’s because they are struggling to get a
job that brings a steady income. Though youth unemployment is just over 10% in
the country, not everyone is a fulltime employee. Many young people are looking
for better pay and more stable jobs. Also, only one in 10 students who are graduating
this year have found full-time employment because of the sluggish economy, according
to a recruitment firm. So, many students are investing their money and time on taking
courses and getting skills to be better qualified for prospective jobs. They
claim their priority is to get a job and they don’t have enough time or money
for dating. However, there seem to be other social and mental factors that deter young people
from dating or having relationships.
Enjoy reading and learn about modern South
Korea’s social problems.
No comments:
Post a Comment