25% of Divorced Men Share Common Struggles: Explosive Fights with Ex-Wives During ‘Shopping’

A recent survey revealed that one in four divorced men frequently had arguments with their ex-spouses over ‘shopping’ during their marriage.

Re-marriage companies Only-U and Bienarae surveyed from the 27th of last month to the 2nd of this month, asking 538 divorced men and women (269 each) the question, “What activity with your ex-spouse led to frequent arguments during your marriage?” 25.7% of the men responded that ‘budgeting household expenses’ was the primary cause.

The results showed ‘when shopping’ (25.2%), ‘purchasing gifts for in-laws’ (22.3%), and ‘discussing attendance at in-law family events’ (16.4%).

For women, the highest proportion of respondents 28.6%, said they argued ‘when shopping’, followed by ‘budgeting household expenses’ (24.2%), ‘discussing attendance at in-law family events’ (21.2%), and ‘purchasing gifts for in-laws’ (18.2%).

Son Dong-kyu, the CEO of Only-U, explained, “Among older divorcees, many are dual-income households, and often the wife is in charge of the household finances. Both the husband and wife argue to increase their personal spending or allowance while trying to reduce the other’s, leading to frequent arguments.” He added, “When couples go shopping together, they often argue over differences in the items purchased, price, taste, and shopping behavior.”

In response to the question, “What phrase did your ex-spouse frequently use to bash you during arguments?” 34.2% of men said their wives often said, “See? What did I tell you?”

Other common responses included “You’re showing off without knowing your level” (23.1%), “How can you be like that throughout your entire life?” (22.6%), and “You do you, as always.” (13.0%).

On the other hand, the highest proportion of women, 30.5%, said they often heard the shaming phrase “You do you, as always.” from their husbands. This was followed by “How can you be like that throughout your entire life?” (25.3%), “You should know how lucky you are to have a husband like me” (20.1%), and “You’re showing off without knowing your level” (15.9%).

Lee Kyung, the general manager of Bienarae stated, “When couples argue, they often insult or ignore each other to lower their partner’s self-esteem.”

By. Dong Hyun Kim