@article{ART003198096},
author={Yoo, Hyowon and Park, Seyeon and Hong, Yejin and kim ji eun},
title={Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea},
journal={아시아여성연구},
issn={1225-9241},
year={2025},
volume={64},
number={1},
pages={7-54}
TY - JOUR
AU - Yoo, Hyowon
AU - Park, Seyeon
AU - Hong, Yejin
AU - kim ji eun
TI - Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea
JO - 아시아여성연구
PY - 2025
VL - 64
IS - 1
PB - Research Institute of Asian Women
SP - 7
EP - 54
SN - 1225-9241
AB - This study aims to analyze the non-dating phenomenon among South Korean women in their 20s and empirically explore the primary factors contributing to their decision to refrain from romantic relationships. Previous research has predominantly focused on non-marriage, with limited studies addressing non-dating as an independent phenomenon. To fill this gap, this study systematically examines the reasons why young women choose not to engage in romantic relationships. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines survey research and in-depth interviews. The survey results identified five key factors influencing non-dating: (1) High Standards (mismatch of ideal partner expectations and trust issues), (2) Self-Oriented Values (preference for self-development and independent living), (3) Financial Burden (costs associated with dating and financial instability), (4) Lack of Opportunities (time constraints and limited chances to meet potential partners), and (5) Low Body Image (lack of confidence in appearance and discomfort with physical intimacy). Among these, self-oriented values were found to have the most significant impact on satisfaction with non dating status and future dating intentions. Additionally, in-depth interviews revealed that non-dating is not merely an individual choice but a complex phenomenon influenced by social, economic, and psychological factors. Notably, concerns about gender inequality in relationships and risks associated with dating violence emerged as significant reasons for avoiding romantic relationships. This study highlights that non-dating is shaped by structural transformations and shifting values in contemporary Korean society, advocating for a more flexible perspective on romantic relationships and marriage beyond traditional norms.
KW - Non-dating;dating avoidance;romantic relationships;marriage perception;non-marriage
DO -
UR -
ER -
Yoo, Hyowon, Park, Seyeon, Hong, Yejin and kim ji eun. (2025). Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea. 아시아여성연구, 64(1), 7-54.
Yoo, Hyowon, Park, Seyeon, Hong, Yejin and kim ji eun. 2025, "Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea", 아시아여성연구, vol.64, no.1 pp.7-54.
Yoo, Hyowon, Park, Seyeon, Hong, Yejin, kim ji eun "Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea" 아시아여성연구 64.1 pp.7-54 (2025) : 7.
Yoo, Hyowon, Park, Seyeon, Hong, Yejin, kim ji eun. Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea. 2025; 64(1), 7-54.
Yoo, Hyowon, Park, Seyeon, Hong, Yejin and kim ji eun. "Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea" 아시아여성연구 64, no.1 (2025) : 7-54.
Yoo, Hyowon; Park, Seyeon; Hong, Yejin; kim ji eun. Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea. 아시아여성연구, 64(1), 7-54.
Yoo, Hyowon; Park, Seyeon; Hong, Yejin; kim ji eun. Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea. 아시아여성연구. 2025; 64(1) 7-54.
Yoo, Hyowon, Park, Seyeon, Hong, Yejin, kim ji eun. Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea. 2025; 64(1), 7-54.
Yoo, Hyowon, Park, Seyeon, Hong, Yejin and kim ji eun. "Beyond Non-Marriage to Non-Dating: An Exploratory Study on the Non-Dating Phenomenon Among Young Women in South Korea" 아시아여성연구 64, no.1 (2025) : 7-54.
