Tokyo Dating Agency Matches Couples with Same Surname to Challenge Name Change Law
A Tokyo dating agency has launched a unique matchmaking event pairing individuals who share the same surname, such as Suzuki, Ito, or Tanaka. This initiative aims to highlight the growing reluctance among Japanese citizens to change their names upon marriage, a requirement mandated by Japan's civil code which forces couples to adopt a single family name in 95% of cases where the woman changes hers. The event serves as a creative protest against the law, which critics argue discriminates against women and hinders their professional careers. With support from business lobbies like Keidanren and international bodies like the UN, there is increasing pressure on the Japanese government to introduce a selective dual-surname system. Participants at the event use only first names to bypass the legal constraint, signaling a cultural shift regarding identity and marital equality.
Wire timeline
Tokyo Dating Agency Matches Couples with Same Surname to Challenge Name Change Law
A Tokyo dating agency has launched a unique matchmaking event pairing individuals who share the same surname, such as Suzuki, Ito, or Tanaka. This initiative aims to highlight the growing reluctance among Japanese citizens to change their names upon marriage, a requirement mandated by Japan's civil code which forces couples to adopt a single family name in 95% of cases where the woman changes hers. The event serves as a creative protest against the law, which critics argue discriminates against women and hinders their professional careers. With support from business lobbies like Keidanren and international bodies like the UN, there is increasing pressure on the Japanese government to introduce a selective dual-surname system. Participants at the event use only first names to bypass the legal constraint, signaling a cultural shift regarding identity and marital equality.
The Guardian