Why South Korean and Japanese women are choosing American or European husbands
Data reveals a clear preference among these women for Western partners. In South Korea, 28% of international marriages in 2023 involved American men, followed by 18% with Chinese men. Marriages to men from other Western countries, including France, Italy, Germany, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, accounted for approximately 17%. A similar trend appears in Japan, where American men were the top choice among foreign grooms for Japanese women. Japanese men seeking foreign brides, however, primarily choose women from China and the Philippines.
Why white partners are preferred
The preference for white partners is influenced by a combination of cultural depictions and societal differences. Western films and media often portray white men as romantic and egalitarian figures, shaping perceptions of them as ideal partners. Additionally, Western nations rank higher in global gender equality indices compared to South Korea and Japan, making them attractive to women seeking more balanced relationships.
A 2017 Pew report highlighted a broader trend of Asian women in America marrying outside their race more often than Asian men. This preference for interracial marriage among Asian women may reflect a desire to avoid traditional expectations within their own communities. Western countries generally rank higher than many Asian nations in gender equality rankings. This perceived difference may contribute to the view of Western men as offering a more equitable partnership.
This pattern suggests these women seek more
