Recently, a Twitter Post sparked intense debate on social media in Japan, quickly reaching trending status. The tweet in question read: “Lunch with friends who are mothers. Out of six, four were having sex with someone other than their husband». This comment, which seems to narrate an unexpected discovery during a social gathering, provoked a wave of reactions ranging from disbelief to resignation, highlighting once again the controversy surrounding infidelity, known in Japan as “netorare”.

The term “netorare” has become popular in Japan, specifically referring to infidelity where one of the spouses is cheated on and, in many cases, becomes a passive victim of the situation. This issue has been a recurring theme in Japanese popular culture, reflected in literature as well as anime and manga. However, the recent revelation that four out of six women at a simple social gathering were involved in extramarital affairs has caused quite a stir among social media users.

«The 'marriage' system is over» commented one user, expressing his despair at the institution of marriage in modern society. Another user added sarcastically: “It's just a matter of like attracts like.», suggesting that this type of behavior is not so uncommon among certain social groups.

Some more critical comments have suggested that the lack of love in these relationships has caused marriage to become a mere financial transaction, “If there is no love, all that remains are bank accounts and insurance.». The normalization of infidelity was also highlighted in comments such as “Nowadays it is normal to be deceived», which reflects a growing acceptance or resignation towards these practices.

This tendency toward infidelity may be related to the perception that husbands neglect their wives, both emotionally and physically. Japanese society, with its long working hours and strong focus on duty, can leave little room for couples to maintain a healthy emotional relationship. “Netorare” can be a manifestation of the emotional emptiness that many women feel in marriage.which leads them to seek attention and affection outside of the marital relationship.

However, infidelity is not only seen as a moral issue, but also as a calculated risk. «Maybe they see it as an insurance policy, saying it was without consent when necessary to get money.». The controversy over “netorare” and infidelity also fuels a cycle of mistrust and cynicism that affects both men and women. «It makes me angry that these people say that 'men are unfaithful by nature'» wrote one user, pointing out the perceived hypocrisy in society.

The publication not only exposed an uncomfortable reality, but opened a dialogue about the current state of marriage in Japan, the morality of relationships, and the deep divisions that exist around these issues. As the debate continues, it becomes clear that “netorare” is not just another term in Japanese culture, but a reflection of deeper problems within the country’s social and emotional structure.

Source: Otakomu