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The modern society has let loose the Serial monogamist – Do they cause the increase in Divorce and Separations?

Divorce and separation rate increases all over the world. Most divorces are seen in industrial developed countries and could be linked to the living standard rising and change in social roles of men and women during the transition of society.

Humans struggle to be monogamous, and the serial monogamist describe some humans in this battle.

Statistics from the United Nations show a trend of rising divorce rates in many countries in recent years. The divorce rate has been high in many European countries and America, but now many Asian countries are catching up. The divorce rate in Korea, for example, is ranked third in the world.

Many factors influence the decision to divorce or separate. Some reasons commonly discussed in the literature include individual preferences, age, gender, cultural norms and social customs, economic opportunity, and institutional rules, e.g. family policies of marriage and divorce.

Trends in marital instability vary by country; however, a striking distinction is the difference in trends.

When you analyze relevant independent variables such as age, sex, employment, and education are analyzed in relation to marital instability for each country. Additionally, local economic indicators and development there is a pattern that these factors influence the probability of being divorced or separated differently for men and women.

The largest significant degree of divorces occur where married women working and the percent of non-farm labor. Both these variables represent not only what they appear to represent at face value, but also larger societal shifts in the way in which families live and interact with their surroundings

Changes in women’s roles in society and advances in economic development appear to follow similar trends in increase of divorces and separations.

The percent of married female labor participation in a local geographic region is associated with an increase in the probability of being divorced for both men and women, and associated with a decrease in separation for women and an increase in separation for men. Those with less than a high school education are more likely to be separated and less likely to be divorced than those with the equivalent of a high school education. And, finally, local economic development plays a role. Higher development in a local geographic area is associated with an increase in both divorce and separation.

Monogamy is the state of having only one husband, wife, or sexual partner at any one time. The word monogamy comes from the Greek word monos “?????”, which means one or alone, and the Greek word gamos “?????”, which means marriage or union. In many cases, the word “monogamy” is used to specifically refer to marital monogamy.

Social monogamy refers to two persons/creatures who live together, have sex with one another, and cooperate in acquiring basic resources such as food, clothes, and money.

Sexual monogamy refers to two persons/creatures who remain sexually exclusive with one another and have no outside sex partners.

Genetic monogamy refers to two partners that only have offspring with one another.

Marital monogamy refers to marriages of only two people.

Serial monogamy is characterized by a series of long- or short-term, exclusive sexual relationships entered into consecutively over the lifespan. This does not refer to a fifth variety of monogamy in regards to the four main types, but is a type of monogamy that can describe any of the four other varieties.

In common usage referring to humans, the two partners need not be married, but may be involved in a sexually monogamous relationship. This behavior is sometimes referred to as a form of, or replacement for,  polygamy.

In animal sexuality, serial monogamy often means that an animal will have a different, but exclusive, breeding partner each mating season. Generally, any animals that do not mate with one partner for life can be considered serially monogamous, including those who find a second mate only upon the death of the first.

Serial monogamy has always been closely linked to divorce practices. Whenever procedures for obtaining divorce have been simple and easy, serial monogamy has been found. As divorce has continued to become more accessible, more individuals have availed themselves of it, and many go on to remarry. It has been suggested, however, that high mortality rates in centuries past accomplished much the same result as divorce, enabling remarriage (of one spouse) and thus serial monogamy.

A serial monogamist is a person who has many sexual partners in his or her lifetime, but only ever one at a time. The serial monogamist will seemingly form what looks like a lasting commitment to one person, but the commitment is usually only superficial. Some serial monogamists are incapable of commitment for a long period of time.

The partnership in the relationship can either be through marriage or a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship. Usually, the serial monogamist is aware of the pattern that he or she follows. Each relationship may be entered into with a how long will this one last frame of mind.

The serial monogamist is usually fully aware of his or her inability to fully commit to another. This does not mean that serial monogamists do not try to commit, but it seems that commitment is not something they feel comfortable with. Compared to serial monogamy, true monogamy is a state in which one person stays with another for his or her entire life.

In the western world, true monogamy is becoming less and less common. Today we see that more marriages than ever split up within three years. Serial monogamists can stay with partners for that length of time or even longer. It is a source of frustration to some serial monogamists that they have been labeled with this title. The serial monogamist’s relationships can last longer than some marriages.

Fear of commitment and perfectionism play a large part in the serial monogamist’s thinking. Childhood influences also a play a large part. Bad role models from parents give serial monogamists an inherent fear of commitment. They are unable to cope with the pressure of the family unit for long periods of time and eventually seek their independence once again. If the partnership begins to show problems similar to those witnessed in childhood, then it will no longer mirror the ideal the serial monogamist has in his or her head.

Many people think that they can be the one to change the serial monogamist’s way of thinking. This is sometimes a futile effort. The pattern of serial monogamy is often so established that the serial monogamist can predict the month or year that the break up will occur. No one seeks to end a relationship willingly if there are no problems. For some serial monogamists, the fear of commitment is beyond their control.

Some people hold that serial monogamy is a psychological problem. They believe that the only way to deal with the serial monogamist’s state of mind is through psychological help. Other people think that the term serial monogamist is a cop-out. It can be used as a way for people to give weight to their incapability of sustaining a relationship. Whether it is a psychological problem or not, serial monogamy is usually not a state of mind most people are happy to live with forever.

People’s comments on the subject of Serial Monogamist

Finally I have found the answer to my last relationship failure. A wonderful 2+ year relationship with a man I am still in love with, even though we are now apart. He has had several long lasting monogamist relationships in the 20 years since he was divorced. I ended it , using my head and not my heart, because I found when I really needed him after an injury his depth of caring just wasn’t there, not capable of the ‘normal’ emotions associated with a relationship. I challenged him about being like this and he is quite happy to go the rest of his life like it, does not want to end up with someone having the responsibility of looking after him when he is old - ultimately I think this is because he is incapable of doing the same for the person in his life

I had a brief, intense 3 month relationship with a man who actually said to me, “my therapist calls me a serial monogamist”. What was I thinking? Esp. when I found his new girlfriend on a well known website and found that he is taking her to the same places, telling her the same things, creepy! Poor girls before and after me! I am glad I got “dumped” when I did. We should always maintain our friendships while we date, even if it is exclusively, you never know who will find you. It was hard, terrifying, life changing, but I have learned a lesson.

I guess I would call myself a serial monogamist. I’ve only ever had short term relationships. I just recently graduated high school and that dating world is all I’ve known. You know how when you’re with someone you spend all your time with them? Even if it’s just hanging out at so-so is house watching movies. I’ve always been the one to break it off and my friends can usually tell when I’m going to before I even do. I tend to exhibit the same symptoms over and over again. Some say it’s because I haven’t found the one, others say I have commitment issues. I guess both are true. But at some point I’d like to hopefully change my ways. I live in a fairly small suburb and my reputation has started to proceed me. Now it seems that no guy will date me because they’re afraid of just becoming another number on my list

Yes, maybe it’s best for the serial monogamist to move on through life at a fast pace without having “Legal complications” but, have you ever thought about the people who get left behind in your path of destruction? Those people often experience rejection to a point that it contaminates your self image. I know, I have just come out of such a “relationship” where I am the victim of a serial monogamist. It hurts so much; I can’t even begin to describe it to you. So, yes, there is one huge advantage in leading this life style, but only to the serial monogamist himself/herself. Nobody else enjoys the benefits associated to this kind of life style

I do believe that I am a serial monogamist and I wonder if this is why I tend to pick guys who could also be considered serial polygamists. I tend to always be in relationships and despise “cheating”, however after a break-up, I will say “I am going to be single for awhile and just enjoy It.”, and then within 2 weeks to 3 months I find myself in a relationship again. My longest relationship has only been 5 years and I average somewhere around 7 to 8 months. I have recently entered a new relationship, this one only 3 months after the divorce from a 5 year marriage. I do however want this one to “last forever”, whatever that is and think that maybe I should seek psychological help so that it can. Wow, the revelation is absolutely startling, but it helps me visualize the problem and hopefully now I can find a solution.

I was just dumped by what I consider a serial monogamist after almost 4 years. My boyfriend was the best in so many ways with the exception of the inability to communicate deeply and show what I would consider true emotion, in every other way he was the best guy ever, which is what makes the breakup even more difficult. His primary father is now on number five, while his second dad was emotionally and verbally abusive so I’m told by his mother. What kind of effect does this have on an individual who initially told me they wanted to spend the rest of their life with me?

I am a serial monogamist. I am not the least bit ashamed of it either. I did, however, figure it out a bit late; I’d had 2 failed marriages and had just backed out of a third. Now that I know I was only getting married because society told me I should, I quit getting married - makes life easier. Plus, if you tell the other person right up front that you are fine with long term but no “forever please” you tend to have very satisfying relationships that end amicably for both.

I am a serial monogamist & I am not the slightest bit happy about that fact & I guarantee that it’s not a cop-out. I have always gone into things with the feelings of “this could be the one” & as said in the article….it never is. Then I am left with the crying, the indecisiveness of “what if I am giving up too soon” and then it gets dragged out into the war of polarities for 10 years. I constantly ask “why can’t he be the one….why do I need to go through this nightmare again?” My condition has become absolutely explosive since my divorce 4 years ago in which I have only had one relationship since then ending in 7 months. No matter how I try it never works for an independent, self-reliant, strong & sober woman. Why am I incapable of having a good, happy & healthy relationship with the opposite sex? Why is it always an issue? I would love nothing more than to nest & have a loving husband….do I see that ever happening though? No…never. not for me. I have come to the terms that I am not one of the fortunate that will ever have the soul mate & life-long commitment. I accept it as best as I can, I hold my head as high as I can & I just continue on.

Many people fall into this general description without ever intending to be a serial monogamist. Many people enter a relationship intending it to be “the one”… but then find (for whatever reason) that the relationship won’t last. And so, they move on, or are left, with the idea that the next one might become the right one. To some extent, this is the process of dating many people when you are young and single, in the hopes of finding someone who is a “good fit”. In truth there are a number of individuals with whom one could settle down with, except in our modern culture, divorce, and hooking up, are considered more acceptable. Therefore, serial monogamony becomes more prevalent.

It is my goal to be a serial monogamist. Why would I want to be committed to one person my whole life? Once the relationships get boring I should be able to move on without any legal implications and so on. I don’t see how serial monogamy can be seen as a problem. People should be encouraged to live this way since it is more realistic to live this way than to commit to one person your whole life.

The people who need psychological help are the ones who decide to stay in a relationship fraught with difficulties “for the kids” or because they can’t admit that the relationship has run its course. Since we all have a limited number of years here I fail to see the sanity in staying with a partner you no longer love just because society says you have a psychological problem if you don’t. My parents have been married for over 35 years and I am pretty sure around 20 of them were spent unhappy. Now they are so old they have no choice but to remain together until one of them can escape through the death of the other. No thanks. You can keep your lifelong commitment stuff to yourselves.

Global trend of Divorce rate

The US: People fear divorce more than marriage

About 59% of America’s population of 300 million is married. Although over 90% of American adults look forward to married life, divorce rates are still very high. During the 1950s, more than 90% of married couples would stay together for ten years or more, but in the 1990s, this percentage has fallen to below 50%. In recent years, many older adults have been getting divorced after they turn 60, or even 80 years old.

American experts says that there are many reasons for the rising divorce rate, including people’s longer life spans, new generational values, and the growing economic independence of women.  Another reason is that it is extremely easy to get divorced in America. In recent years, as the economy has struggled and jobs have become harder to find, younger Americans are not willing to marry so quickly and those who are married are not so quick to divorce.

Korea: Divorce rate ranks 3rd in the world

According to Korean government statistics, the divorce rate in Korea is growing at an average rate of 0.5% per year. In the past ten years, the total number of divorces has increased by nearly three times. That is to say, out of every 1,000 couples, 2.8 of them will divorce, making  Korea’s divorce rate the third highest in the world after America and the UK.

There are various reasons why the divorce rate in Korea is so high, but the main reason is disagreements between the mother-in-law and wife. A representative from Korea’s family courts who handles divorce cases went on the record to say, “Divorce cases always increase after Mid-autumn Day, New Year and the summer holiday because couples are more likely to quarrel about going to the in-laws house. And then once they get there, as problems between the mother-in-law and wife become from pronounced, someone ends up demanding a divorce.”

Another factor that has led to rising divorce rates is a change in values.

More women are initiating divorce or separation procedures. 66.7% of divorces in 2003 were initiated by women, compared to 30.6% by men. Among the reasons cited for getting a divorce, 46.4% of divorces occur because the wife or husband is having an affair.

In order to curb the rising divorce rate, the government has enacted certain measures that have proven to be effective. In March 2005, the Seoul Family Court implemented a mandatory “thinking period” and counseling session which couples must complete before applying for a divorce..

India: Divorce rate twice as high as ten years ago

In India, there are no formal statistics concerning divorce rates due the large rural population and incomplete records, but it is widely acknowledged that the divorce rate has greatly increased.

Young couples divorcing is a major reason divorce rates have risen. The phenomenon of “family group marriages” is also noteworthy. In rural India, marriages between families are quite common. For example, the brothers of one family marry the sisters of another family at the same time. In a situation like this, once one marriage ends in a divorce and leads to deep enmity between the families, all the marriages are likely to end in divorce.

According to a recent survey, the higher a woman’s educational level, the less she cares about getting a divorce.

Germany: Legislation to make divorce more difficult

Divorce rates in Germany have remained high in recent years with no sign of declining. Statistics show that over 200,000 couples divorced last year. Most of the couples who divorce have already lived apart for the last six years of the marriage and at the seventh year they begin the divorce procedures. The German media has blamed this on rising unemployment rates which cause unhappiness in the marriage.

A “divorce economy” in German society has become popular, in which divorce-related magazines, companies, bars, and TV shows have added fuel to the fire. A famous marriage counselor has expressed concerns with the appearance of this phenomenon saying, this will probably encourage more people to separate from their partners. A German expert on the marriage law said, “People have the right to get a divorce, but they should not abuse this right. First and foremost, people who wish to divorce should consider their responsibilities to their elders, children, family and society. The fact is, because people are so hasty to divorce, the issues of single parent families, care for the elderly and children’s education have become crucial social problems.

In response, the German legislature is trying to pass legislation making it more difficult to get a  divorce. Divorce is not encouraged by the government. Once a husband wants to get divorced, he must give his wife half of his income for the rest of his life.

Brazil: Single girls seeking married men

The divorce rate in Brazil has doubled since 1985. Many experts believe that this is due to the 1988 abolition of a law that men could only have two divorces in their lifetime. Now, they can marry and divorce as many times as they like.

Sociologists believe that attitudes towards divorce have changed. In the past, women who divorced their husbands were looked down upon. Now, Brazilian women believe that if a woman suffers from domestic abuse, it is a shame to continue being with him. Statistics show that 73% of divorces and separations are initiated by women. In addition, infidelity is another reason for the break up of marriages. A psychologist, Mr. Louis, says that, in Brazil there is a strange phenomenon of single girls seeking out married men.

In order to maintain social stability, Brazilian law states that married couples must wait two years after their marriage to get a divorce. Furthermore, they must live apart for two years. The law also stipulates that people must wait two years after a divorce to remarry.

China: Rapid growth in divorce rates

According to statistics from the China Civil Administration Department, 341,000 married couples divorced in 1980, 800,000 in 1990, 1,210,000 in 2000, and 1,331,000 in 2005. From these numbers it is evident that divorce is a growing trend in China.

Xu Anqi, an analyst at the Shanghai Social Science Academy and standing director of the China Research Association for Women and Family says the reason for the growing number of divorces in China is multifaceted. First, society is going through a transitional period which is greatly affecting the stability of marriages. Second, as living standards increase people have higher expectations towards marriage and love. A third reason is, the simplification of marriage and divorce procedures has made getting a divorce much easier.

Xu Anqi believes that high divorce rates in certain areas do not necessarily indicate marriages are unhappy and society is unstable. A survey on marriages revealed that people are happier in an open country with looser divorce laws. That is because couples with problems can separate and those with stable marriages are more emotionally satisfied, which is beneficial to a harmonious social order.

Chen Xinxin from the Women Studies Institute of ACWF (All-China Women’s Federation) also thinks that improvements in women’s social status have resulted in increasing divorce rates. As women become more independent economically and spiritually, they are no longer regarded as socially inferior, and this is a reflection of women’s liberation and social progress.

(Source: Global Times)

This article is about the Influence of the A(H1N1) to the Beijing airfare and Shanghai airfare. You can find some useful information in it if you are planning your China vacations now.

Now the Beijing airfare and Shanghai airfare have been greatly affected by the A(H1N1) flu. You can get the air tickets at very good deals. On 05/12/2009, the airfare from Hangzhou to Beijing is only 350 rmb. This is the same as the cost of the train from Hangzhou to Beijing. Some Chinese airlines companies said that most China airfare is now pretty low, some airlines are selling their air tickets at 70% - 80% off. Comparing with the airfare of the domestic flights, the influence of the A(H1N1) flu to the international flights are even bigger.

From May,2009, many international airline companies began their big promotions on the tickets of the international airlines. The airfare is now at the lowest level in the recent 3 years. The Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. is now offering the round trip tickets ( from Shanghai to London and from Shanghai to Manchester ) at only 5900 rmb. Before the A(H1N1) event, the lowest airfare you can get for this airline is 6500 rmb. The China Southern Airlines Comapny Limited is also selling the air tickets at a incredible low airfare. You only need to pay 3800 rmb for the flight from Shanghai to Amsterdam (the capital of Netherlands). It was 4500 rmb before the A(H1N1) event.

The Emirates Airlines is now offering 2 free nights at the Dubai’s five stars hotels, 1 free ticket to the aquarium, underwater zoo and skating rink, 1 free 96 hours’ United Arab Emirates visa if you buy a first class or business class ticket from them. This promotion is available from 05/15/2009 to 09/15/2009. (more info about the Beijing airfare at Travel2ChinaInfo Dot COM)

The China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited is now selling the round trip tickets from Shanghai to Seoul at the low airfare of only 1040 rmb, and only 3060 rmb for the round trip tickets from Hong Kong to Sydney. If you are planning your trip from Shanghai to Chicago, you can choose the American Airlines. They are selling the round trip tickets from Shanghai to Chicago at the low airfare of only 4500 rmb.

Another good news for the international travellers is that the Bunker Adjustment Factor fee is lower than it used to be now. You can save some money from this price change too.

“There are only 3 A(H1N1) cases in China now. But we are still worrying about its influence on the China airfare. Currently, the A(H1N1) is only affecting the international flights and airfare. It did not affect our domestic airfare yet. But if the A(H1N1) event get worse in China, the domestic airfare will be greatly affected for sure. This will be a disaster for the Chinese airlines companies already running in the red before the A(H1N1) event.” Guihong Zhao (professor from the Civil Aviation University of China) said.

Now China has 3 A(H1N1) cases:

(1). Mr Bao is a student of an American university. He is 30 years old. He flew from Saint Louis to Tokyo on 05/07/2009. On 05/08/2009, he caught the flight NW 029 from Tokyo to Beijing. On 05/09/2009, he flew from Beijing to Chengdu (by the flight 3U8882). This is the first A(H1N1) case in China. Now Mr Bao was recovered and discharged from hospital (on 05/17/2009).

(2). Haitao Lv is a 19 years old student in Canada. He flew to Beijing on 05/07/2009 (Canadian time) by the flight AC029. He stayed in Beijing for 3 days and visited some famous tourism attractions in Beijing, like Wangfujing, Huanleigu, Houhai bar street, Dongdan. (more info about the China vacations and Beijing airfare at Travel2ChinaInfo Dot COM)

(3). Miss Liu is a 18 years old student in an American university. She flew to Beijing on 05/11/2009. Her disease was identified as the A(H1N1) flu on 05/16/2009. This is the first A(H1N1) case of Beijing.

By Shane Lee. Date: 05/18/2009.

Copyright belongs to Travel2ChinaInfo Dot COM .  You can find more information about China vacations, Lhasa travel guide, Beijing airfare and Shanghai airfare  from our web site.
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Since July 2007, the U.S. sub-prime mortgage problems and the increases in credit spreads over government bonds have triggered concerns about a global credit crunch, and caused global stock market volatility.

However, financial institutions in Asia are in a relatively good position with respect to the credit crunch since they have less exposure to sub-prime mortgage instruments than those based in Europe or the US. Some foreign capital is being redirected to Asian property markets, seeking to benefit not merely from the natural appreciation of real estate in dynamic economies, but also from appreciation of Asian currencies against the US dollar, particularly the RMB.

Foreign investors have shown no sign of scaling back Asian real estate investment activity, especially given the relative scarcity of investment grade properties. The combined value of the quarter’s ten largest investment deals in Asia amounted to US$9.3 billion.

In Singapore, a total of S$15.69 billion worth of investment transactions was recorded in the third quarter, a y-o-y increase of 94%, reflecting continued strong local and global investor interest in office properties as well as Singapore’s positive economic fundamentals. The main market drivers were office transactions and continued activity by developers adding to their land banks. At S$40.95 billion, total investment sales in the first nine months of 2007 have already exceeded the total for 2006 as a whole by 34%.

Investment activity in the office sector more than quadrupled q-o-q in the third quarter, with the S$6.83 billion in transactions accounting for 43.5% of investment sales. With rents at an all-time high, REITs and foreign funds remained keenly interested in prime office properties. The sale of Chevron House (formerly Caltex House) to Goldman Sachs for S$630 million (S$2,783 psf) set a new benchmark for office transactions. The sale ranked tenth in the list of the top ten largest investment deals.

CapitaLand divested its interest in Wilkie Edge, a mixed development including office space, to Capital Commercial Trust for S$182.7 million. CapitaLand also acquired the remaining 50% stake in One George Street and The Adelphi from its partner in Eureka Office Fund Pte Ltd for S$715.75 million. K-REIT and Suntec REIT each paid S$941.5 million for one-third stakes in One Raffles Quay. The deals took number 6 and 7 in the list of top ten investment deals in Q3 2007.

In the second quarter Japan’s real GDP growth fell 1.2% y-o-y, entering negative territory for the first time in three years. However, the consensus opinion is that the negative growth is largely a reaction to the high pace of expansion over the previous two quarters, and the economy is likely to expand at a moderate pace. Although the US subprime crisis influenced the Bank of Japan’s decision to keep the overnight call rate at 0.5%, the BOJ remains optimistic about the economy in most regions.

Despite some volatility resulting from the potential global credit tightening, investment market sentiment remained largely positive in Hong Kong, supported by strong economic fundamentals. Local investors continued to dominate the market while institutional players value the market’s transparency and liquidity. Notable en bloc office transactions in the third quarter included the sale of Oterprise Square for HK$2.07 billion and a 45% stake in AIG Tower in a structured deal.

Investment interest in Seoul’s major districts remained intense in the third quarter, with many investors seeking properties through transactions due to the limited supply of buildings on the market. However the sales of Seoul City Tower and Daewoo Center, both located in the CBD, established new benchmarks for capital values. With the steep rise in capital values in major districts, investors increasingly considered opportunities in secondary areas including Sangam Digital Media City, Pangyo IT Valley and Bundang-gu.

The series of macro-economic and regulatory measures introduced to curb investment activity through the end of June 2007 did not lead to any significant reduction in interest among overseas investors in China.

In Beijing, Singapore-based serviced residence management firm Frasers Hospitality bought a luxury residential project, Tower D of OFFICE PARK, located in the core CBD from Sino-Ocean Land Holdings for RMB 980 million. Czech real estate investor ECM bought the 768,485 sf Metropolis Tower, which is Tower C of the Zhongguancun Financial Centre, for RMB 1.06 billion.

Despite additional government measures to curb foreign investment in real estate, Shanghai’s investment market remained buoyant in the third quarter. China Real Estate Opportunities invested approximately US$708 million to acquire a portfolio of mixed-use projects including City Centre in Changning and Central Plaza in Huangpu, and Hong Kong-listed Tian An China Investments and Capital Strategic Investment established a JV to acquire Novel Plaza for US$105 million. Other major deals included Grosvenor’s acquisition of 28 duplex apartments at the Lakeville Regency and Pacific Star and SEB’s purchase of Cross Tower.

Despite continuing macroeconomic control measures, positive sentiment prevailed in Guangzhou’s investment market in the third quarter. Attractive investment yields underpinned investor interest in the city’s office and retail sectors. Increased overseas participation in land acquisition and development and the growing financial strength of domestic companies have resulted in escalating land prices, as record accommodation values were paid in a number of districts over the quarter. A villa project adjacent to Nanhu Lake was reportedly transacted for RMB 2 billion on an en bloc basis.

Korea, acknowledged as the ‘Land of Morning Calm,’ is located in the heart of East Asia, occupying a mountainous peninsula, stretching about 500 miles south towards Japan. In recent years, Korea has made an outstanding progress in reforming its economy, which has attracted foreigners to invest in almost all sectors of economy.

Korea also holds the distinction of being a stable nation in both political and economical wise. All these have strengthened the real estate market in Korea. Investing in Korean real estate allows you to beat inflation, procure tax benefits, ensuring for cash flow, and above all helps you to effectively plan for retirement. In a snap shot, property market in Korea is unique and presents a range of distinctive features.

However, the prices of real estate in Korea are relatively high. The prices are even higher in such prominent areas as Seoul. But, investing in property market in Seoul provides tremendous benefits, due to such attractive features as landlord-friendly leasing system, market lucidity, and easy convertibility of capitals.

The capital as well as commercial center of Korea - Seoul boasts of the largest concentration of commercial property in the nation, with its two significant business districts such as Yoido, which is home to a number of leading financial institutions as well as the Korean Stock Exchange, and Kangnam area. When compared to other prominent Asian global commercial destinations, Seoul’s property market is about 50% larger than that of Hong Kong and about 100% larger than that of Singapore.

The housing or residential development in the country is mostly dominated by the public services, with the instructions of Ministry of Constructions. Housing developments in Korea are primarily undertaken through government agencies such as the Korea National Housing Corporation and the Korea Land Development Corporation.

One of the greatest specialties of Korean property market is leverage, ie, its ability to tie up an important asset for exceptionally small amount. Another feature of investing in Korean property market is freedom, ie it can fetch you good income without affecting or hindering your present job.

Mostly, people invest in Korean real estate in order to provide it for rent or lease. Literally speaking, tenants pay for your investment property in the form of rent. Also, a great feature of Korean real estate is that it provides you with a regular cash flow, which turns out to be an important income, particularly when the mortgage on property is completely paid off. Above all, Korean real estate is regarded as one of the greatest assets. In short, with these unique features, perhaps there would be nothing perfect than investing in a real estate in Korea.

The laws pertaining to buying or selling of real estate in Korea is quite liberal and simple. Further, in contrast to some Asian nations imposing restrictions on foreigners to invest in real estate, Korea does not put forward any specific restrictions for foreigners to buy a property here, except for complying with the FLAA Act or the Foreigner’s Land Acquisition Act.

In order to register the property with the court registry, alien registration number is required. Further, a foreigner is required to submit relevant documents with the local government office within 60 days of the date of the execution of the purchase agreement. Likewise, a foreigner is required to obtain permission from the local government office, if he is interested to invest in any of the protected areas as stated by the FLAA. A resident foreigner can easily acquire a property in Korea, particularly if he has been in the country for more than six months. Some local banks even provide mortgages to resident foreigners just as they provide it to Koreans.

But, in order to ensure secure real estate transaction, it is important that you must have a clear idea on the steps involved in the process of buying a property in Korea. Further, prior to signing a purchase agreement, it is important to thoroughly check the status of the building or land you are going to acquire. Hence, it is recommended that you hire the service of a professional attorney or a reputable real estate agent.

With a myriad of real estate firms and property builders in the scenario, property search in Korea is not at all a tedious process. Apart from property search, these service providers render a range of other services in connection with sales, leasing, portfolio management, valuation, research, and consultation.

Korea, known as the ‘land of morning calm,’ is situated in a key location in East Asia. The mountainous Korean peninsula stretches about 500 miles south towards Japan. In recent years, the country has achieved tremendous economic growth. Modern Korea is a stable nation both politically and economically. A large number of foreigners are now attracted to invest in all sectors of the country’s economy including the property market. This has strengthened the property market in the country.

Korea is one of the prime property investment destinations in Asia Pacific. Not only is the country’s property market transparent, but the economy itself is very dynamic, offering much scope for growth and development.

The term ‘commercial real estate’ includes properties used for commercial, industrial, medical or educational purposes. Residential properties having more than four residential dwelling units also are considered commercial properties. Commercial properties include hotels, office buildings, shops, retail space, and warehouses.

Commercial property market provides massive investing opportunities. Investing in commercial properties means acquiring commercial properties such as mobile home parks, office buildings, retail properties, and even raw land. Commercial properties often carry a higher degree of risk. It turns out to be beneficial only, if you have a sound knowledge about this market.

The property market in Korea offers you much potential for growth, though the prices of real estate in the country are comparatively high. Korea’s property market prices have seen a rapid rise throughout the country, especially in the Seoul metropolitan area.

In 2002, residential property prices increased a sharp 50% over the previous year and commercial property prices hiked up by about 10%. This upward trend in the property prices is expected to continue for some years. The prices are still higher in such prime locations as Seoul. But, investing in commercial properties in Seoul offers you huge benefits, owing to factors such as the landlord-friendly leasing system, market lucidity, and easy convertibility of capitals.

Seoul, the political and commercial capital of Korea, has a large concentration of all types of commercial properties. The two most prominent business districts of Seoul are Yoido and Kangnam. Yoido is home to a large number of financial institutions including the Korean Stock Exchange.

The demand for the country’s commercial property is growing rapidly among global asset managers. Commercial property market in the country has matured to become more stable, and it is the least volatile in Asia with a steady vacancy rate at 4 percent. Asset managers forecast the Korean commercial property market will continue to expand for two to three years since the demand for office buildings and commercial space is strong, whereas supply is limited.

People invest in the country’s commercial properties mostly in order to provide them for rent or lease. The country’s commercial properties are regarded as one of the greatest assets. Commercial property market in Korea is an ideal choice for anyone who wishes to make the most of his money.

Laws pertaining to real estate transactions in the country are quite liberal and simple. Unlike many Asian nations that impose restrictions on foreigners to invest in properties, Korea does not prescribe any specific restrictions for foreigners to buy or sell a property. Foreigners should, however, comply with the FLAA Act (the Foreigner’s Land Acquisition Act).

During the past couple of years, the country’s property market has been greatly influenced by speculative demand, owing to the large amount of available capital and low interest rates. As the earning rates of financial capital have fallen in recent years, Investors have come to look upon real estate as a possible option that may yield large returns as the earning rates of financial capital diminished in recent years.

The real estate fiscal systems in the country include asset-backed securities (ABS), mortgage-backed securities (MBS), and real estate investment systems (REITS). These real estate products can be classified into two categories, depending on their characteristics. The first involves securities based on asset liquidity and the other involves real estate mutual funds or real estate securities.

The country’s real estate financing market will continue to expand in the coming years owing to the steady increase in demand. It is encouraged by government policies designed to promote the secondary mortgage market.

The biggest as well as the capital city of the Republic of Korea (South Korea,) Seoul is an intriguing destination, situated in the mid western region of the Korean Peninsula, on the Han River, near the North Korean border, otherwise known as the de-militarised zone (DMZ), which in turn is a buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea. Spread over an area of 605 sq km, Seoul has been designated with the status of a Special City, and is directly under the administration of the national government.

Seoul’s history dates back to as early as 18 BC when Paekche Kingdom made Wiryeseong, which is today’s southeastern Seoul, as its capital. Later, Seoul became the capital of the Goryeo era during the 11th century. Seoul was then known as Southern Capital, which was later renamed Hanyang in 1394 when the Joseon dynasty made Seoul its capital.

In 1948, Seoul became the capital city of South Korea. Additionally, Seoul witnessed several wars and destruction during various phases of its history. But, Seoul has been now transformed into an international destination, with a sound commerce and sports scene. Despite its modern soaring buildings and sophisticated expressways, Seoul still retains its old world charm.

For those who want to enjoy the traditional culture of Korea, a visit to Seoul’s Insa-dong would be a great experience. Situated in the middle of the city, Insa-dong is an exciting as well as colorful place with alleys on either site.

All of the alleys seen here are packed with traditional restaurants and teahouses, cafes, and shops, where both traditional and precious items are put for sale. It is also home to a number of interesting art galleries such as Gana Art Gallery, Gana Art Center, and Hakgojae Gallery, which is the center of folk art. One of the best ways to tour these galleries is via the Art Center Bus, which takes you to more than 10 much famed art galleries in the region.

Of the marvelous attractions in Seoul that deserve a special mention is the Gyeongbok Palace, also known as Northern Palace. Built in 1395 by Taejo Seonggye Lee of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbok is perhaps the most beautiful of all palaces in the area.

Sprawling over an area of 495,000 the palace’s highlights cover Geunjeongjeon - the main hall, Gyeonghoeru - the banquet pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong, which is island developed within a pond. Also, within the palace is the National Folk Museum, with some rare artifacts.

Another fabulous palace in Seoul is Deoksugung, which has to its credit an amazing mix of temples and gardens. Also, a great palace in the area is Changdeokgung Palace, which still serves as the residence of Royals. However, a guided tour is the required to take a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, the oldest palace in the city. Seoul’s incredible attractions also include a variety of ancient shrines and pagodas, such as Chongmyo Shrine and Chogyesa Temple. A specialty is that many of the shrines in Seoul are graced with beautiful Buddhist art.

Your visit to Seoul would not be complete without taking a tour to Dongdaemun Market, which is dubbed as the ‘Mecca of Fashion.’ With a large collection of shopping malls, Dongdaemun Market is a place to shop a full range of clothing items and that too at cheap prices. Both retail and wholesale shops can be seen here, and few among them are Freya Town, Doosan Tower, Migliore, Designer’s Club, Nuzzon, Migliore Valley, and Gwanghee Fashion Mall. Also, found in the vicinity is Dongdaemun Stadium, which is a great place to shop sporting materials.

Another popular market place in the area is Namdaemun Market, where everything from men and women’s apparels, children’s wear, and shoes to kitchenware, indigenous items, and imported goods can be shopped. Since this market area has such a great number of shopping malls, it is recommended to plan in advance prior to shopping.

A must-see attraction in Seoul is Mt. Namsan, a 252 m mountain located in the heart of the city. Mt Namsan and its surrounding areas have been maintained as a public park. Among the highlights of this symbolic mountain are the Palgakjeong Pavilion, Seoul Tower, Namsan Library, and a marine aquarium, and a botanical garden. You can reach the summit either via the hiking trail or through a cable car ride. Namsangol Traditional Korean Village is close to the mountain.

Other not to miss attraction in the area are War Memorial, National Theater, Korea House, Myong-dong Catholic Cathedral, Sejong Cultural Center, and Sejong Cultural Center.