'Most couples we knew divorced': Korean-Japanese YouTubers warn against living for the camera

Lee Jung-jae and Aino Keiko, a couple from Korea and Japan, recently celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary. The pair, who have two children together, document their experiences living and raising their family while alternating between life in Korea and Japan on their YouTube channel, Hanane’s Day. The couple, considered among the first Korean-Japanese YouTuber duos, recently discussed the advantages and disadvantages of being creators and the realities of international marriage in an interview with the Hankook Ilbo.

Lee and Keiko met in 2011 when Lee was studying a short-term language program in the Philippines. A mutual friend from that program arranged for Keiko, who was working in Canada at the time, to meet Lee. They began dating and eventually got married, despite the significant cultural and language differences between them. In the interview, the couple shared insights into their experiences as YouTube creators and the challenges they faced in their international marriage.

One of the main pros of being a YouTube couple, according to Lee and Keiko, is the opportunity to share their unique experiences with a global audience. They find that the struggles and triumphs they face as an international couple, as well as the differences in culture and language, provide a distinct appeal compared to other types of videos. This allows them to connect with viewers from various backgrounds and backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and understanding across borders.

However, the couple also discussed the cons of being YouTubers and international spouses. One of the primary challenges they face is the immense pressure to maintain a perfect image for their audience. The couple admits that they have had to navigate moments of harsh criticism and skepticism from viewers who doubted their relationship or questioned their decisions. Additionally, the constant need to produce content and engage with their audience can be mentally and emotionally taxing, often leading to burnout and stress.

Another con they mentioned is the difficulty of balancing their professional and personal lives. As a couple living and raising their children in two different countries, they often find themselves juggling work, parenting, and language barriers. This can lead to feelings of isolation and exhaustion, especially when dealing with the demands of being a YouTuber.

Despite these challenges, Lee and Keiko remain committed to their YouTube channel and their marriage. They emphasize the importance of open communication, understanding, and patience in overcoming the obstacles they face. By sharing their experiences, they hope to inspire other international couples and creators to embrace their differences and build strong, supportive relationships, even in the face of adversity.