Recently, a survey conducted by the Yomiuri Shimbun in 2005 resurfaced and went viral on comment forums in Japan, sparking intense debate among users. The survey found that more than 701% of single women in Japan believed they could be happy without getting married. This revelation caused a mix of opinions and once again brought into discussion the perceptions of marriage in Japanese society.

The study, conducted in February 2005, showed that 73% of single women felt they could lead a full and happy life without getting marriedan increase of 10 percentage points compared to a similar survey conducted in 2003. Furthermore, 67% of single men shared this perceptionalthough the percentages vary depending on age, with people in their 20s being the most optimistic about a life without marriage.

Among the reasons identified for this trend, The survey mentioned the advancement of women in the workforce (67%) and the growing lack of interest in getting married during what was traditionally considered the 'right age' (52%). These factors have contributed to a phenomenon known as “晩婚化” (bankonka), or delayed marriage age, which in turn is related to the problem of low birth rates in Japan.

Comments on the forums reflected a wide range of opinions. Some users expressed agreement with the survey results, noting that women’s financial and emotional independence makes them less dependent on marriage for happiness.In fact, unlike single men, single women have higher incomes and longer lives, they are a superior race.», comments one user, highlighting the perception that single women enjoy better economic and health conditions compared to single men.

However, other users have expressed concerns about the long-term implications of this trend. «It is said that single men die at 60, how many years do you have left?» comments one user, referring to studies that suggest that single men tend to live shorter lives.

The debate has intensified with comments questioning the viability of a life without marriage as we age. «The opinion of single women in their 40s drops to 50%, right? This means they start to regret it as they get older.» noted one user, suggesting that as single women reach their 40s, they may begin to regret not getting married.

As this ancient research continues to gain attention, it becomes clear that perceptions about marriage in Japan have changed significantly in recent decades. The debate continues on online forums, where users discuss whether or not it is possible to lead a happy life without getting married, and what the long-term consequences of this trend might be for Japanese society.

Source: Yaraon!