Man's dilemma over marrying older girlfriend sparks online debate

A debate is unfolding online after a 30-year-old man shared his dilemma regarding his five-year relationship with a girlfriend six years his senior. The man, identified as A씨, expressed uncertainty about the expectation to marry, questioning if not proceeding to marriage after five years constitutes irresponsibility.

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If you don't marry me after dating for 5 years, are you irresponsible?

A씨 met his girlfriend through a club when he was 25 and has been dating her since. While he enjoys the relationship, he admits he hasn't seriously considered marriage. However, his girlfriend has recently begun pushing for marriage preparations, discussing venues, housing, gifts, and honeymoons, much to his surprise and discomfort.

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Take responsibility

He reports feeling pressured, with comments like "take responsibility" and "you should have said earlier if you didn't want to marry" arising when he expresses hesitation. A씨 stated his current desire is to maintain the dating relationship rather than marry.

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If you didn't want to marry, you should have said so earlier.

Online responses are split. Some netizens believe a five-year relationship typically implies marriage intentions, suggesting he should have clarified his stance earlier. Others argue that marriage is a personal choice and distinct from dating. A common piece of advice is that differing expectations about marriage necessitate a relationship reevaluation.

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Marriage is a personal choice.