As people born in the 1990s reach marriageable age, matchmaking firm Gayeon reports that members’ preferences for physical appearance are shifting.
On the 10th, Gayeon said more of its female members now favor a clean, softer "tofu" look rather than sharply chiseled features.
The "tofu" look describes a pale, clean-cut face; actors Choi Woo-shik and Jang Dong-yoon and musician P.O. were cited as examples. The number of women who prioritize tall stature has also risen.
Members continue to prefer stable occupations—professional careers, large and mid-sized companies, and state-run enterprises—that offer reliable financial security. Yet they are increasingly factoring in appearance and height alongside traditional measures of ability.
Women listed emotionally steady, calm, and considerate men as their ideal partners.
Male members once favored petite women, but recent preferences have shifted toward tall, slender women with a fresh, natural look.
Selection criteria have also changed: whereas men once prioritized looks, a growing number now weigh ability and occupation alongside appearance.
Men showed a clear preference for public-sector jobs—civil service and state-run companies—which Gayeon attributes to stronger parental leave and benefit policies compared with the private sector. Many male members said they want a spouse who can continue working steadily after marriage.
Men said they prefer partners who are cheerful, optimistic, and quick to smile.
Gayeon added that the pattern of men seeking younger partners and women seeking older partners has weakened. More members now prefer partners closer to their own age rather than someone with a large age gap.
More men are willing to accept a woman one to two years older if she is capable. Gayeon noted that as women have become more active socially and economically, fewer rely on an older partner’s financial resources.
As of last year, members aged 30–39 made up 60.7%—the largest share. Those 40–49 accounted for 21.3%, ages 20–29 were 9.8%, and those 50 and older were 8.2%.
