At an 8th Century Buddhist temple in South Korea, a monk in burnt-orange robes has turned dating into a national mission. Young men and women gathered at Donghwasa Temple near Palgongsan mountain for a 30-hour matchmaking retreat aimed at helping them find partners and, eventually, have children.
The event reflects South Korea’s deepening birthrate crisis, with the country’s fertility rate falling to a historic low of 0.72 in 2023. Organisers say the goal is simple: make it easier for young people to meet, connect and consider marriage in a society where dating has become harder.
Why the retreat exists
A response to falling births
South Korea has seen births decline as housing costs rise, childcare support remains limited and many young adults delay or avoid marriage. Authorities have expanded parental leave, cash incentives and housing support, but local governments and civic groups are also turning to social events like this temple retreat.
Dating has become difficult
Young Koreans are going out less, drinking less and meeting fewer potential partners through everyday life. Dating apps never fully took off, and many people still rely on school, work or blind dates arranged by friends and family.
Inside the temple event
Competitive selection
More than 1,580 people applied for the retreat, with participants chosen through questionnaires and selfie videos to assess their seriousness about marriage and children. The event was open to all, regardless of faith.
Awkward but hopeful moments
Participants took part in introductions, walks through the temple grounds, shared lunch dates and a talent show. Small gestures — from carrying luggage to handing out handmade pastries — became part of the ice-breaking ritual.
A social experiment
Why it matters
The retreat blends tradition, social concern and matchmaking in a way that has drawn attention far beyond the temple grounds. It shows how South Korea is experimenting with community-based solutions to one of its most pressing demographic problems.
