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Society

South Koreans' choice of staying single gains wider acceptance

Some companies offering perks to employees who opt out of marriage

Condominiums in central Seoul. Many South Koreans prefer to stay single due to higher housing costs and lack of job opportunities -- as well as angst about traditional role models.

SEOUL -- South Korea faces declining birthrates and a rapidly aging workforce, but the new trend of bihon, or opting out of marriage, is gaining popularity in the country despite the challenge the lifestyle choice poses to the workforce.

Local businesses, however, have been quick to respond, offering unmarried employees the same benefits as those given to married workers.

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