How is Dating Asians Different?
Want to start dating Asians in Asia? Get ready to pick up some differences that I wish I knew when I first arrived!
No matter what you’ve heard back home – nothing can prepare you for what you can expect. Why is this? Because you wouldn’t notice much difference at first.
Or at least I didn’t (but I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed.) 😉
Ok let’s go!
It’s Usually More Pragmatic
When you start to date Asians you’ll notice how more practical Asian women are when it comes to relationships. For example, when I was in Korea the 3 questions I’d get after meeting an Asian woman within the first 3 minutes were:
- how old are you?
- what’s your job?
- are you single or married?
The reason they are is because in Asian culture you’re supposed to get married before you’re 30. If it comes down to it the parents will get a matchmaker who can link people based on job, status and age (more so than interests and personality.)
So when you date Asian women you’ll have to keep in mind that chances are she’s evaluating you from a practical (maybe even mercenary) perspective…more than what you’re used to.
Another thing to keep in mind is this…
Interracial Relationships is Still New in Asia
In countries like China and Korea the concept of interracial couples is new.
This is because Asia has been culturally closed off (even Thailand) until the 21st century.
Not only that but there are cultural stigmas in each country for being with a foreigner (some more some less).
The only places where I would say doesn’t have that much cultural stigma would be Hong Kong and Singapore (which makes sense because of its international influence.)
Does it mean that interracial romance is impossible?
Not at all.
Just understand that it’s still quite new and that you’ll have to adjust to it (or at least let your date adjust to it.)
Speaking of your date…
Casual Relationships in Asia is New
Until recently if you were dating Asians it was for one reason – to get married. The idea of casual dates is new. Heck one time I went on a date with an Asian woman and at the restaurant she was pouring my drink and cutting my food. I was like…okay…
When we were supposed to meet for a date the next time she never showed up! The reason was that she was looking to marry someone but figured that (I was 3 years younger than her) I wasn’t a good candidate (remember how I said it was about practicality?)
This is just one example but in reality only the younger generations are opening to casual relationships (that and women over 30.)
Something else you’ll have to adapt to. 😉
Can It Work in Asia?
Of course it can! You can definitely have a good time meeting Asian women (or more.) The thing to understand is that the social scene is different and so are the goals and values of the locals. Another thing to keep in mind is that you’re now a minority.
The sooner you accept these realities – the better you’ll do.
