- In 2020, Hong Kong’s divorce rate reached a record high, with about 34,000 couples divorcing.
- Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage is one of the most common reasons for divorce among Hong Kong couples.
- Behavioural problems such as infidelity, domestic violence or addiction can make it impossible for a couple to keep living together.
- Money problems, work-life balance and communication problems can all lead to a decision to divorce.
Hong Kong’s divorce rate has been rising steadily in recent years. In 2020 it reached a record high, with about 34,000 couples divorcing, around 2.4% of that year’s marriages.
Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, so it helps to understand why people in Hong Kong may choose to end a marriage.
Reason for divorce 1: irretrievable breakdown of the marriage
One of the most common reasons for divorce given by Hong Kong couples is “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage”.
This means the relationship has become so strained that the couple cannot resolve their differences or reconcile.
This can have many causes, such as:
- Lack of communication
- Differences in values
- Lack of emotional connection
In many cases, couples try to work through their problems but cannot, and this leads to a decision to divorce.
Has your marriage broken down beyond repair?
Feel free to check your situation with us.
Common reasons for divorce 2 and 3: behavioural problems and financial problems
Another common reason for divorce in Hong Kong is “behavioural problems”.
This is where one partner does things the other cannot accept, such as:
- Infidelity
- Domestic violence
- Addiction
Such behaviour creates a toxic environment in the marriage and makes it impossible for the couple to keep living together.
Common reason for divorce 3: financial problems
Money problems can also be a major cause of divorce in Hong Kong. Many couples may struggle with:
- High debt
- Losing your job
- Spending more than they earn
These financial difficulties put great pressure and strain on a marriage, leading to conflict and, in the end, a decision to divorce over money.
Common reasons for divorce 4 and 5: work-life balance and communication problems
Work-life balance is also an important factor in Hong Kong’s high divorce rate.
Because life in Hong Kong moves so fast, many people find it hard to balance work and family life, leaving less time and energy for the marriage.
This can make a couple feel disconnected from each other and, in the end, lead to a decision to divorce.
Common reason for divorce 5: communication problems
Communication problems can also be a major factor in marriage trouble in Hong Kong.
When a couple cannot communicate effectively, it can lead to misunderstanding and conflict and, in the end, a decision to divorce.
- Related reading: How divorce affects children in Hong Kong, and how to support them
Can communication problems lead to a decision to divorce?
Get in touch, and a dedicated consultant will first understand your situation.
Common reasons for divorce 6 and 7: high expectations and infertility
High expectations can also be a major cause of divorce in Hong Kong.
In Hong Kong, many people have high expectations of their marriage, and when those expectations are not met, they may look to end it.
Common reason for divorce 7: infertility
In Hong Kong, infertility can also be a reason for divorce.
Some couples decide to divorce when they cannot have children, as this can put great emotional and psychological pressure on both partners and lead to disappointment and low mood.
- Related article: Does a wife always get half of the assets in a divorce?
Common reason for divorce 8: lack of emotional connection, and summary
Finally, a lack of emotional connection can also be a reason for divorce in Hong Kong.
When a couple cannot build an emotional bond, the marriage develops a sense of distance and dissatisfaction, which leads to a decision to divorce.
Summary of the common reasons for divorce
In short, there are many reasons for divorce in Hong Kong, including:
- Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage
- Behavioural problems
- Financial problems
- Work-life balance
- Communication problems
- Differences in culture and tradition
- Expectations that are too high
- Infertility
- Lack of emotional connection
It is important to understand these reasons. If your marriage is in difficulty, seek professional help.
Divorce is a difficult and emotional process, but with the right support and guidance, it is possible to get through it and move on with life.
What should you do when your marriage is in trouble?
If in doubt, feel free to contact our dedicated consultants.
