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By Jane Han
Staff Reporter
Over one million foreigners live in Korea, but could it really be that no one thought of starting up a dating service for the huge demographic till now?
Sunoo, the country's second-largest matchmaking firm by market share, last month kicked off a matchmaking site for foreigners, becoming the first local agency to offer services to non-Koreans.
With an online registration (www.couple.net) fee of $20, members can instantly access Sunoo's client database of 15,000 men and women ― 200-300 Koreans who speak English and currently 50 foreigners residing in Korea ― explained Erica Oh, global team manager of Sunoo.
``Member registrations are starting to grow and we're confident that this is going to be a lucrative business,'' she said, adding that clients living here can even connect with members residing overseas.
Membership fees range from as little as $20 to $3,500, depending on the type of service.
Despite the business possibilities, No. 1 market player Duo, which manages 21,000 members here and in the U.S., labels the business as ``too risky.''
``Matchmaking agencies need to take responsibility in verifying subscribers' identification and background,'' said Kim Sun-ah, a Duo spokeswoman. ``But frankly, it's a challenge to cover foreigners who come from all around the world.''
Some single foreigners similarly expressed concern over lack of proper screening and potentially dangerous individuals lurking behind fake identities.
``I like the idea of being offered this service, but I don't want some creepy person from who knows where stalking me,'' said a 32-year-old female English instructor, who didn't want to be named.
A 27-year-old male PR agent from the U.S. said, ``The idea is good, but the matchmaker needs to guarantee a safe service.''
Addressing these concerns, Oh of Sunoo says that the agency requires applicants to accept a personal information verification agreement, which holds members legally responsible for the information they provided. If the information is proven to be false, she said violators may have to pay more than 100 million won in compensation.
``We're trying to provide as many safety measures as possible to prevent misinformation and problems from arising,'' said Oh, adding that subscribers are also required to submit a copy of their passport and employment verification.
The new service, which opened Feb. 14, may be good news for all those lonely souls out there, but don't get carried away too quickly because not everyone gets the same access.
Oh said that Sunoo is targeting ``elite clients,'' hinting that business executives are favored over English teachers.
She explained applicants go through a rigorous evaluation that assesses their social economical status, physical attractiveness, family background and qualification as a spouse.
Any hopeful subscriber can join online, but not all will get invited to Sunoo's exclusive parties involving face-to-face meetings.
``We look at people's credentials and approve a request only if we feel that they're suitable,'' she explained.
jhan@koreatimes.co.kr
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