Dating in Korea: Gen Z divides exact costs to prevent relationship burdens

Gen Z, the younger generation in South Korea, has developed a unique approach to dating and socializing that contrasts with the older generation. Rather than the traditional method of one person paying the bill and the rest splitting it, Gen Z tends to split each bill evenly and pay only for their personal expenses. This behavior, known as 1/N, is seen as more considerate and fair, as it prevents anyone from owing money to others after a meal or outing.

For young Koreans, splitting the bill demonstrates a sense of responsibility and reason in their relationships. It goes beyond mere etiquette and reflects an attempt to achieve fairness and equity at the core of human relationships. Participant 6 explains that for the older generation, if a group of five friends met regularly, one person would pay one night, and someone else would pay the next.

While this method may lead to an equitable distribution over time, the older generation perceives the current practice of splitting the bill immediately as lacking warmth and personal connection.

Participant 5, however, argues that their generation has always approached dating and socializing in this manner. They emphasize that if one consistently meets with a group, everyone will likely end up paying roughly the same amount. But they also believe that finishing the bill settlement immediately is a cleaner and more efficient process, avoiding potential misunderstandings or awkward situations down the line.