Japan, Where Wives Took Husbands' Surnames, May Change Like Korea... "Support Separate Surnames"

Currently Maintaining Marital Same-Sex System Following Only One Party's Surname

Six out of ten Japanese citizens responded that they support the "optional separate surnames system for married couples," which allows spouses to use their premarital surnames after marriage. Currently, in Japan, the wife takes the husband's surname after marriage. In Korea, couples continue to use their premarital surnames separately even after marriage.

On the 9th (local time), Japan's NHK broadcast reported the results of a public opinion survey on the separate surnames system conducted over three days with 1,211 people aged 18 and older nationwide. According to the survey, 59% supported the optional separate surnames system, while 24% opposed it, showing that about six out of ten people are in favor.

The photo is not related to any specific expression in the article. [Image source=Pixabay]

Since 1989, Japan has applied the same-surname system for married couples. Accordingly, either the husband or the wife can take the other's surname. However, in reality, more than 95% of households have the wife taking the husband's surname.

However, as more women enter the workforce, voices advocating for the recognition of separate surnames for married couples are growing in Japan. NHK explained that a civil law amendment related to this was once prepared but was not enacted into law.

Meanwhile, the Keidanren (Japan Business Federation) and other business circles have also called for the introduction of the separate surnames system, signaling a rapid change in the situation. At a press conference on the 10th of last month, Keidanren Chairman Tokura proposed the separate surnames system for the first time within the association.

The reason Keidanren is interested in the separate surnames system is due to business practices. Chairman Tokura pointed out, "Under the current system, the same-surname system for married couples can cause obstacles in overseas business and may pose risks to corporate business." He noted that unnecessary misunderstandings or disruptions could occur in contract drafting, bank account openings, and so on.

In response, Keidanren stated, "This is a business risk that cannot be seen merely as a personal issue of the individuals involved," urging, "We hope that thorough discussions will be held to raise the issues and respond promptly."

Recently, six couples have also filed a lawsuit against the government questioning the constitutionality of the same-surname system for married couples. If the Supreme Court of Japan (equivalent to Korea's Supreme Court and Constitutional Court) rules the same-surname system unconstitutional, the National Diet is expected to begin a full-scale review.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.