What is 'graduation from marriage'? Recently, this idea is being actively discussed in our lives. Many celebrities declared it and it has been the hot subject in dramas.

 Graduation from marriage is a totally different idea with divorce. A couple maintains a marriage, but do not interrupt one another and live independently. This concept is derived from Sugiyama Yumiko's book, graduation from marriage(卒婚). In the book, the author defines 'graduation from marriage' as designing the second life escaping from the duty of marriage.

 It seems really similar with divorce in the way that they live separately. However, in graduation from marriage, the couple respects one's personal lives. They fulfill all the financial obligations and do not make an adversarial relationship.

 Then would it be okay? A variety of arguments still exist about graduation from marriage. Some people say that it is a social phenomenon from the lack of communication. The others say it is just new trend and a couple should respect one's private life.

 Is it a new marriage system or destruction of family? Social discussions are still required. But what is certain is that people can start a new life by graduation from marriage. In the later part of one's life, it means a lot.

L.L.F. reporter Yu-Jin Kim