Young Love on a Budget: The Economic Dilemma for Japan's Millennials

An increasing number of Japanese youngsters, accounting for 70 percent, are expressing concerns over the high cost of marriage, indicating a society grappling with challenging economic realities. The debate on 'cost-performance' or 'kosupa' of marriage has surged in recent months, revealing the financial restraints contributing to the country's declining birthrate. This shift in attitude highlights the mounting pressures and anxieties surrounding financial stability and familial expectations amongst Japan's youth.

Marriage is traditionally seen as an important milestone in Japanese society, often accompanied by social and familial pressures. However, with increasing economic restraints, the conversation around marriage has shifted towards cost-performance, triggering debates and highlighting the conflicts between traditional expectations and contemporary realities. Japan's youth is evidently prioritizing financial stability, reflecting their concerns about high living costs, job insecurities, and social safety nets.

In the US or EU, marriage rates have also slowed down due to economic reasons, and cohabitation prior to or instead of marriage is becoming more common. However, while the Western nations have seen a liberal shift in the societal understanding of relationships, the emphasis on traditional marital norms remains stronger in Japan.

Information for Your Country

To understand more about Japan's societal values and norms, visit the official Japan Guide (Japan-Guide.com) or Japan Society (JapanSociety.org) websites for cultural insights and updates.