Divorced singles seeking new partners are placing significant emphasis on appearance during initial meetings. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Oct. 21 (Korea Bizwire) – In South Korea, where remarriage rates are on the rise, divorced singles seeking new partners are placing significant emphasis on appearance during initial meetings, with clothing and facial expressions emerging as key factors in forming first impressions.
A recent survey conducted by Only You, a matchmaking company specializing in remarriages, revealed that both men and women consider attire and facial expressions as the top two influences on first impressions during autumn remarriage meetings, known locally as “matchmaking dates.”
The survey, released on October 19, showed that 30.5% of men and 34.2% of women ranked clothing as the most crucial factor, followed closely by facial expressions at 26.1% and 30.1% respectively. For men, makeup (21.9%) and accessories (14.1%) were the next most important factors, while women prioritized hairstyle (25.2%) and makeup (7.1%).
The importance of appearance was further underscored by anecdotal evidence from participants. One respondent noted, “Despite her high social status based on education, career, and economic power, I felt embarrassed sitting next to her due to her unkempt attire.” Another commented on a successful career woman who arrived dressed as if for a casual walk, stating, “It showed a lack of common sense and effort, which discouraged any desire for conversation.”
When asked about their priorities in choosing outfits for these meetings, men favored practicality (29%), followed by ambiance (24.2%), elegance (20.8%), and trendiness (18.6%). Women, interestingly, prioritized bold fashion choices (31.6%), followed by elegance (25.7%), ambiance (20.5%), and practicality (15.5%).
An expert commenting on the survey results explained, “Men often wear their usual work attire to these meetings. Women, who previously adhered to more formal dress codes like suits or dresses, now prioritize personal style and current trends over strict formality.”
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
