Young South Korean singles gathered at a rural, centuries-old Buddhist temple this month for a 30-hour matchmaking retreat [1, 2].
The event comes as South Korea faces an all-time low birthrate, leading young adults to seek innovative ways to find romantic partners [1, 2].
Organized by the Korean Buddhist Foundation for Social Welfare, which launched the program in 2023 [1], the July event saw a record 4,225 applicants [3]. The retreat focuses on compatibility through a series of structured activities designed to foster deep connections in a short timeframe.
Participants engaged in blindfolded trust walks, tea conversations, and yoga [1, 2]. These exercises are intended to test interpersonal dynamics and emotional resonance among men and women in their 20s and 30s [1, 2].
Reports on the exact number of participants vary. One source said that 10 men and 10 women attended the event [1]. However, another report said that 12 men and 12 women took part in the retreat [2].
The program aims to move beyond the superficial nature of modern dating by utilizing the serene environment of a temple to encourage mindfulness and sincerity. By removing the distractions of urban life, the foundation hopes to facilitate more meaningful encounters for the participants.
“South Korea’s birthrate has fallen to an all-time low, prompting young adults to seek partners through innovative matchmaking programs”
The surge in interest for temple-based matchmaking reflects a broader societal shift in South Korea. As traditional dating norms struggle against economic pressures and a declining birthrate, the involvement of religious institutions suggests a move toward 'slow dating' and spiritual compatibility as a remedy for the isolation felt by young adults.
