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The Chinese love-hate relationship with traditional matchmaking
Younger generations in China are distancing themselves from the superstitious and discriminatory practices of older matchmakers, yet they struggle to find suitable partners without this centuries-old tradition.
In Chinese culture, 'xiangqin' or matchmaking, carries deep societal implications. unmarried men and women being introduced by a third party with hopes for a compatible romantic relationship.
Historically in ancient China, engagements and marriages were not merely personal choices but collective discussions involving the reputations of both families involved, professional matchmakers' opinions, and social relationships between households. Individuals' desires often took a backseat to family concerns. While attitudes towards love and marriage have become more liberal over time, matchmaking still holds its roots in traditional Chinese society.
Today's younger generations reject this tradition, seeing it as an outdated trafficking system that discriminates based on residence status and property markets. They believe in individualism, personal freedom and modern science but cannot ignore the impact of the 'hukou' residency system or soaring real estate prices on their lives.
The 'hukou', China's household registration system, influences access to social benefits and opportunities. For young Chinese who strive for success within top-tier cities like Beijing and Shangh, the hukou becomes a significant factor in matchmaking decisions.
As real estate markets become more rigid and unpredictable, securing property or upward mobility seems out of reach even with hard work and ambition. This has led many young Chinese to view marriage not as solely an expression of love, but also as a means for social stability or class advancement.
Despite their disdn for traditional matchmaking practices, young people find themselves torn between condemning the culture of 'xiangqin' and considering its potential benefits in navigating China's complex socio-economic landscape.
In essence, the debate surrounding Chinese matchmaking highlights the anxieties of younger generations about their future prospects, including hukou status, property market challenges, social mobility and securing a good education for their children.
In , while young people in China may be disillusioned with traditional matchmaking practices that prioritize wealth over love, they understand its persistent relevance within society. This tension reflects their struggle to reconcile personal values with societal expectations as they navigate the complexities of modern Chinese life.
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