Pairs dating app enters South Korea with AI match feature

Match Group has confirmed the launch of its Pairs dating app in South Korea, targeting singles seeking serious, value-based relationships and marriage.

The app, operated by Eureka, a subsidiary of Match Group, is designed to foster genuine connections beyond superficial dating experiences. According to figures released by the company, Pairs surpassed 20 million cumulative registrations globally as of 2022.

The South Korean introduction comes as shifting cultural and demographic factors reshape perspectives on relationships and marriage in the country. A survey commissioned by Pairs before the launch examined the attitudes of 500 South Koreans aged 25 to 34. The survey found that 91% of respondents identified the lack of like-minded partners as their primary challenge when searching for a romantic relationship. Additionally, 53.4% of those with prior dating app experience reported feeling pressure from evaluations based on external factors such as income or appearance.

The launch announcement highlights Pairs' use of an AI-powered feature labelled 'Real Mind Matching', which recommends compatible partners based on responses to 10 key questions about dating and marriage values. These questions cover topics such as plans for children, attitudes toward tattoos, and communication preferences. The answers are not displayed publicly, which the company says encourages more honest participation while facilitating matches grounded in shared perspectives.

Pairs integrates artificial intelligence to analyse users' answers to these questions, as well as to track activity patterns and previous matching outcomes. The algorithm is designed to learn from a range of real-time interactions, updating suggestions for compatible partners on a daily basis.

To address safety and user trust, Pairs implements the PASS authentication system, which requires identity verification before joining. The dating platform also enforces community guidelines, monitored continuously using a combination of AI and human reviewers, to detect and address inappropriate behaviour. Rule violations result in content removal, warnings, or permanent bans. Users also have access to reporting, blocking, and profile-hiding features.

Only individuals who are at least 19 years old and have completed identity verification are eligible to use the app. It is available on the Google Play Store for Android and the App Store for ios.

Discussing the launch, Ryoma Yamamoto, CEO of Pairs, said, "We are thrilled to introduce Pairs to the Korean market. We believe we can offer Korean daters a better alternative to the very limited and restricted existing serious dating platforms. We will remain committed to providing a trustworthy and supportive service to help Korean users discover their miracle match—grounded in shared values".

Pairs was originally established in 2012 and positions itself as a platform for high-intent dating, encouraging users to seek out lasting and meaningful relationships beyond surface criteria.