A fierce debate erupted among single men and women over what counts as an “average” spouse in today’s marriage market.
On the 10th, an anonymous post on the workplace community Blind titled “Is it hard to meet a man like this?” grabbed attention.
The author, who goes by A, laid out a checklist of husband qualities and asked whether finding someone like that is realistic. Commenters were quick to argue that the list basically describes the top 1%, and the thread blew up online.
A’s wishlist covered everything from looks and education to job, finances, and family background. First up: a toned build, at least 175 cm (5 ft 9 in), good looks, and a stable job at a major company or as a government employee.
She also required a four-year university degree from a Seoul school. But what really shocked readers was the financial expectation: the man’s family should be able to cover his parents’ retirement and offer at least 500 million KRW (about $375,000) in support or gifts at the time of marriage.
Personal-asset standards were strict, too. He should personally own at least 100 million KRW (about $75,000) and be savvy with investments.
On habits, she wanted someone who doesn’t drink, smoke, or play video games, who avoids Instagram and other social media, has a low-key personality, and keeps a small circle of friends. A closed by asking, “Is it hard to meet a guy like this?” The reply threads were icy.
Readers called the author out as out of touch. One commenter noted that while each requirement might seem ordinary on its own, a man who meets every single one would represent far less than 1% of South Korea’s population.
Another user snapped that a handsome guy who attended a Seoul university, works at a big company, and has parents who can provide 500 million KRW (about $375,000) in support isn’t likely to give up drinking, smoking, gaming, and Instagram just to wait around for her.
The 500 million KRW (about $375,000) support demand left many male workers feeling deflated. Angry replies piled up: “Do you expect a Gangnam apartment deposit?”, “What do you bring to the table?”, and “Don’t pretend you’re looking for average while hunting for a unicorn.” Some offered practical advice too, warning that if she keeps crossing off conditions one by one, she may end up alone.
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