On the October 26th episode of KBS Joy's 'Ask Anything', a 38-year-old man shared his story of breaking up after a long-term relationship, seeking advice on the crossroads between marriage and dating.
The man, who has a deep connection with China, having majored in Chinese and attended a graduate school for translation, revealed that out of his five relationships, three were with Chinese women. He expressed his confusion, saying, “After ending a 7-year relationship at 38, I want to date more, but I feel pressured to get married.”
Recalling how he became interested in China, he said, “A pastor's suggestion to study Chinese in Harbin struck me like lightning.” Feeling it was fate, he moved to China, lived there for four years, and immersed himself in the language and culture.
His first relationship began at 22 with a tutor he met in China, but ended due to differing values when he discovered she was seeing multiple people. His second relationship was with a Chinese woman he met at a graduate school prep academy, lasting about four years, but ended when marriage was discussed as he turned 30.
His third relationship started with a Chinese language instructor at his workplace, but ended due to frequent conflicts over priorities between work and romance. After a brief relationship with a Korean woman, he entered a seven-year relationship with a Chinese woman he met at church.
He shared, “We got along well without major fights for seven years,” but noted the sudden breakup might have been due to not discussing marriage. One day, his girlfriend cried during a date, and a few days later, he noticed his photo was removed from her messenger profile, signaling the breakup. When they met to talk, she had already moved on.
Seo Jang-hoon commented, “The difference in perceptions about marriage timing between countries might have played a role.” He advised, “If four out of five relationships are connected to China, their culture and mindset might suit you better. Keep an open heart, and someone you want to marry will come along.”
Lee Soo-geun added, “With your dating experience, there's no need to feel pressured into marriage. It happens naturally when you meet the right person.”
The man, making a public appeal, said, “I have a sexy intellect, a healthy body, and a considerate heart,” and expressed his sincerity in fluent Chinese.
Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr