: A dramatic rise in digital sex crimes has reshaped how relationships are viewed online, leading to increased calls for legal reform and better protection for women and girls. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more World Report 2025: South Korea - Human Rights Watch

Consequently, a new relationship model has emerged: Gul-hoi (Circle relationship). Instead of exclusive romance, many young people prefer mixed-gender friendship circles where emotional intimacy is shared without the "contractual" pressure of romance. It is the checked repack of friends with benefits into friends with boundaries .

: Short for "something," this is the pre-relationship talking phase where mutual interest is felt but not official.