Traditionally, Korean women adopted their husband's surname upon marriage. This practice, known as patrilineal descent, is rooted in Confucian principles that emphasize the importance of lineage and family continuity. However, in modern Korean society, the practice of taking the husband's surname is becoming less common.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Legally, Korean women are not required to take their husband's surname. The choice is entirely theirs.
- Many women today opt to keep their own surname for personal, professional, or cultural reasons.
- The decision is a personal one based on individual preferences, family traditions, and societal expectations.
- The trend towards surname retention is particularly strong among younger generations.
While the practice of taking the husband's surname is still prevalent in certain sectors of Korean society, it is no longer a mandatory or universally accepted tradition.
