LINE is an indispensable communication tool in Japanese romantic relationships. Its importance is growing every year, especially among the younger generation. In this article, we will delve into the details of how LINE is influencing Japanese people’s dating and romantic relationships.
What is LINE?
LINE is a free messaging application widely used in Japan. Originally developed in 2011 in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake, it quickly became a popular means of communicating with family and friends. Today, LINE is used for a wide range of purposes, including sending and receiving messages, using stamps, video calls, and even news and shopping functions. Its ease of use and versatility have made it an important tool in everyday life and in relationships.
The Role of LINE after a Date
In Japan, it is very common to use LINE to express one’s impressions after a date has ended. For example, “Today was fun! Thank you!” to express your gratitude to the other person by sending a one-word message such as, “I had a great time today! This kind of exchange is considered a basic step in maintaining a good relationship with a partner.
In addition, in post-date LINEs, people often discuss their next plans. When can we meet next time?” or “I would like to go to this place” are suggested in a natural way. This helps build anticipation for the next date and deepens the relationship.
Stamps are the key to expressing emotions
One of the main features of LINE is communication using stamps. Japanese people tend to prefer indirect expressions rather than direct words. Therefore, stamps are used as a useful tool for conveying emotions.
For example, people send stamps expressing gratitude when they want to say “Thank you,” or use funny stamps when exchanging light jokes. Such exchanges complement the nuances that cannot be conveyed through text alone, and help to increase intimacy with the other person.
Frequency and content of messages indicate the other person’s feelings
The frequency and content of LINE messages are important clues to understanding the other person’s feelings. For example, if someone sends you messages frequently, it is likely that they are interested in you. On the other hand, if the reply is slow or the content of the message is not very clear, it suggests that the person may be less interested in you.
For this reason, many people tend to be sensitive to the LINE from the other person. LINE communication has such a significant impact on the progress of a relationship that terms such as “read-through” and “unread-through” have been coined.
The Evolution of LINE among the Younger Generation
For the younger generation in particular, LINE is at the center of not only romantic relationships, but also communication in their daily lives. As a result, the use of LINE in romantic relationships is also diversifying. Some young people use LINE’s “Timeline” function to share their daily life and feelings and show themselves to their partners.
In addition, there are an increasing number of cases where group chats are used to deepen relationships through light conversation with mutual friends. In this way, LINE is also seen as an important tool for providing an opportunity to start a relationship.
Planning a date unique to LINE
Planning a date using LINE is also a unique feature of the Japanese market. For example, when someone asks, “Where do you want to go?” and by sending each other pictures and links to potential destinations, concrete plans can be made. This kind of exchange is an advantage of LINE, which allows users to share not only textual but also visual information.
Also, on the day of the date, real-time messages such as “I’m on my way! or “I’ll be a little late” can be exchanged in real time, making it possible to proceed with plans smoothly. In these ways, LINE also contributes to the success of the date.
Conclusion
LINE has become more than just a messaging application in Japanese romantic relationships. From stamps that convey emotions, to exchanges of messages that deepen relationships, to date planning, LINE has become a tool that supports romance in every aspect.
Especially for the younger generation, LINE is the key to getting closer to your partner. Understanding this culture will help you deepen your understanding of the Japanese view of romance and communication styles.
For those overseas who are interested in romance in Japan, learning about this LINE culture is a step toward cross-cultural understanding; why not use LINE to get in touch with the Japanese view of romance?
