Chinese youth seek ‘friendship marriage’ with best friends to alleviate family pressure

Growing numbers of young people in China are breaking from tradition by marrying their best friends to escape family pressure and societal prejudice.

The trend is called “friendship marriage” and involves two people who, rather than having romantic love or sexual ties, maintain their relationship based on shared values and interests.

Legally, they are spouses and often live together, though sleeping in separate rooms.

Both partners are free to date outside the marriage, and if they decide to have children, they can choose artificial insemination or adoption.

In Japan, agencies exist that specialise in matchmaking for friendship marriages, catering to a range of clients, including asexual individuals, homosexuals, and heterosexuals disillusioned with traditional marriage.

In China, the trend is similar but tends to be more discreet.