Kazakh student's dating app woes in South Korea: 'Move in with me' on first date

A university student from Kazakhstan, who moved to South Korea two and a half years ago, shared her bewildering experiences with the country's dating scene on the KBS Joy show "Ask Anything." Inspired by the romantic narratives in Korean dramas, she had hoped to find a serious, meaningful relationship.

However, her encounters through dating apps and blind dates have largely fallen short of these expectations. Many men she met were primarily interested in casual relationships, leaving her confused about how to identify and choose a suitable partner. She explained that limited opportunities to meet new people in Korea led her to try dating apps.

Responding to her concerns, hosts Seo Jang-hoon and Lee Soo-geun cautioned her against rushing into relationships. Seo Jang-hoon pointed out the risks of meeting strangers online, emphasizing that while genuine connections are possible, many people face harm due to unclear identities. He advised her not to give her heart away immediately but to take time to observe and get to know potential partners.

“

There is no such man in our country.

The student recounted specific instances, including a man who proposed cohabitation on their first meeting after dinner and another who explicitly stated he was looking for a "fun partner." Another date suggested a family trip on their first outing. She has met six men through dating apps and participated in blind dates, with similarly disappointing outcomes, including one man suggesting a hotel after drinking.

When the student mentioned "Boys Over Flowers" as her favorite Korean drama, Seo Jang-hoon humorously remarked that such men don't exist in reality. He encouraged her to continue studying Korean and living in the country, suggesting that her ability to judge people will improve over time. Both hosts stressed the importance of getting to know someone thoroughly through trusted introductions rather than rushing into decisions.

“

As you continue to study Korean and live here, you will develop a better eye for people. Don't give your heart away completely from the start; meet them slowly and observe them for a long time.