From Residents’ Club to Incorporated Matchmaking Company
Tailored Marriage Consulting Including Inheritance and Legal Advisory Services
The marriage matchmaking group independently formed by residents of the ultra-high-priced apartment complex 'Raemian One Bailey' in Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, has recently incorporated as an official marriage agency, drawing both controversy and public attention.
According to the real estate industry and related sectors, the 'Raemian One Bailey Marriage Information Group' (hereafter referred to as 'Wongyeolhoe'), which was initially established by residents of the apartment complex, incorporated under the name 'One Bailey Nobility' in July and officially transitioned into a marriage agency.
Previously, the group organized regular matchmaking events in the form of group blind dates for unmarried children of residents, charging a 200,000 won joining fee and a 300,000 won annual membership fee. Currently, the group has expanded its membership criteria and service offerings, providing customized marriage consulting-including inheritance and legal advice-to high-tier members who pay premium fees.
From Residents' Club to Incorporated Matchmaking Agency... Offering Tailored Marriage Consulting
Wongyeolhoe began as an unofficial group in December 2023, formed by residents seeking suitable spouses for their children. In its early days, only children of Raemian One Bailey residents or owners could join, with outsiders strictly excluded. Now, the membership base has expanded to include residents of Seocho, Gangnam, and Banpo areas, and even those living outside these regions can apply for membership, subject to review and approval.
Even after incorporation, Wongyeolhoe has continued its regular meetings, and it is reported that a total of 11 couples have successfully matched so far. The first couple promised to marry in October last year, and the most recent, the 11th couple, is said to have recently held their wedding.
'One Bailey Nobility' positions itself not as a simple matchmaking service but as a 'high-income customized marriage planning' agency. For top-tier members, the agency also offers post-marriage consulting on assets, legal matters, and inheritance. According to a representative, "As more customers began requesting official receipts, we decided to turn this into a business." Membership fees vary by tier, with the highest level determined individually after screening. Basic criteria such as education, occupation, and income are key evaluation factors. Ultimately, the structure matches individuals with similar socioeconomic backgrounds, making it a prominent example of 'marrying within one's social group.'
The formation of such groups is partly attributed to the value of real estate assets. Raemian One Bailey, a mega-complex with 2,990 units, began occupancy last year and was constructed by Samsung C&T through the Shinbanpo 3rd and Gyeongnam redevelopment projects.
According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's actual transaction data, a 116-square-meter (approximately 46-pyeong) unit was sold last month for 9.2 billion won, equating to about 200 million won per pyeong. In December last year, a 133.95-square-meter unit traded for 10.6 billion won, setting a record of 260 million won per pyeong.
The Rise of the 'Elite Marriage Market' in Luxury Apartments... Spreading to Tower Palace and Beyond
Similar matchmaking groups are emerging not only at Raemian One Bailey but also in areas such as Tower Palace in Dogok-dong, Apgujeong, and throughout Seocho. Residents of Tower Palace Phase 2 have recently formed a singles' networking group called 'Beautiful Connections,' hosting small home parties and cultural lectures to facilitate meetings.
This trend is evolving beyond a simple fad, becoming a new 'marriage culture' among the high-income class in the Gangnam area. However, concerns are being raised that it may also hinder social diversity and integration between different social classes.
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