Describe your ideal type to date this spring
SPRING IS the season of love. In Korea, the month of March marks not only the beginning of a brand-new semester but also a collective hunt of those looking for their very own special someone. The college dating culture is a huge deal—the weekend plan of an average student consists of going to a meeting* or a cherry blossom date (or both), either for fun, or in hopes of starting something new. For freshmen, these events are a rite of passage. Whether you are actively looking, or waiting for fate to lead the way, you may have fantasized about your ideal type at some point. Be it the sharp jawline or the ambitious eyes, what we consider attractive varies from person to person. We asked some of our fellow Yonseians on what they value in a potential partner.
Anonymous Interviewee (Soph., Dept. of Business)
I’d like to date someone who has high self-esteem and knows how to love herself. A “fluffy” and bright personality is alright, but I’d more likely be attracted to a girl with a cool, mysterious side to her. It would be nice if we shared a mutual interest in sports, as I’d like to take her out on dates that involve going to the gym or a basketball game. Also, I’m a big fan of amusement parks, so I’d like to date someone who isn’t afraid of going on rides. I’m a traveler, so someone who loves traveling as much as I do would be ideal.
Overall, my ideal type is someone who often thinks about her future and who isn’t afraid of challenging herself to experiment with new activities. If a person doesn’t really have a set, personal goal, I immediately lose interest.
As for looks, I think my ideal type is model Lee Sung-kyeong. I find her attractive since she is tall and well dressed. Her outfits prove she has a clear, personal “statement.”
Jang Sung-min (Fresh., UIC)
I think it is important for a person to have something that she enjoys, whether it is art, music, or sports. I find it slightly boring when a person does not particularly like or do anything. Ideally, it would be best if they aren’t too soft spoken—I like girls who somewhat talk a lot so that the conversations are not always one-sided.
Looks-wise, I guess I just prefer girls who aren’t extremely thin to the point where they simply look unhealthy. I have seen some people like that and I immediately lost interest.
Anonymous Interviewee (Fresh., Dept. of Social Sciences)
In terms of looks, I like guys with sharp features; for instance, mono-lid eyes and a sharp jawline. One Korean celebrity I can think of who has these features is actor Jo Jeong-seok. It would be nice if their height was 175 cm or above.
Personally, I find comfort in guys who are patient and also attracted to those who have an open mind. I’d like the person to respect my personal space, but lately I have realized it is not a very common quality here in Korea. I wouldn’t want to date someone who is always monitoring me 24/7.
Last but not least, I value compatibility. I’d like to date someone whom I can share my interests with. I want to share songs and have conversations on mutual passions. Currently, I am very into the field of media; I would be very much interested in someone who knows a lot about this area of study. You could say I like men I can learn from.
Lee Ji-Eun (Fresh., Dept. of Social Sciences)
I would like my boyfriend to be a good listener. Listeners are usually selfless and far from being manipulative, if you know what I mean. I would like my partner to be open-minded, as I would like them to respect my private time and space.
Physically, if a guy is tall, that is an immediate plus. Good proportions are also a feature I find attractive. The two are related, but different.
Finally, I would like to date someone with a good fashion sense, especially one who can pull off a “casual look,” like cardigans and denim. Try-hards are a no for me, and musicians are a definite yes.”
Anonymous Interviewee (Fresh., Dept. of Business)
“Let’s talk about the physical features first. My ideal type is someone who has a good body which outfits automatically look good on. Speaking of outfits, my boyfriend must have a good taste in fashion! Also, good skin is a plus, and I would like to date someone who is good at singing.
(One side note: this might sound odd, but I would like to date someone who has an iPhone.)
I value conversation, so, if I were to date someone, it would be someone with good communication skills. I am attracted to people who can keep a conversation going, if you know what I mean.
Lastly, when we go on dates, I would like my boyfriend to be flexible with paying. Some people are extremely particular about splitting the bill exactly, and that is something I find unattractive. My ideal type is someone who is open-minded in these kinds of situations, which happen really often.”
Park I-hyeon (Fresh., Dept. of Computer Science)
“I would be lying if I said I am not interested in good-looking men. Looks are not everything, obviously, but it would be nice to have a cute boyfriend. I especially like men who are tall—and by tall, I mean above 180 cm. I would also like to date somebody who has a buff, “well-built” body.
I prefer men who are respectful and who are socially active. You know how there is always that one guy in a social circle who is pretty much the life of the group? Guys who are the center of attention are usually funny, and I like men who have a good sense of humor.
Last and most importantly, I am attracted to guys who are passionate about a certain field of interest, whether it is the arts, or perhaps sports. Passionate guys are usually very hard-working, and guys with good work ethics are definitely something I am looking for.”
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With that, we wish all the single Yonseians out there the best of luck in finding their perfect match. Keep your eyes open—true love might be closer than you think.
*Meetings: Dates involving multiple pairs
Kim Kyu-ri
kyuri0323@yonsei.ac.kr