Core Insights - The article discusses the phenomenon of virtual relationships, exemplified by a Japanese woman, Ms. Kano, who married an AI partner created using ChatGPT, highlighting a growing trend of individuals seeking emotional support through technology rather than traditional relationships [2][5][18]. Group 1: Virtual Relationships - Ms. Kano's wedding to an AI partner named Lune Klaus reflects a broader societal shift towards accepting virtual companionship as a legitimate form of emotional support [3][5]. - The rise of AI companions is seen as a response to the increasing loneliness and emotional fatigue experienced by individuals in real-life relationships [12][16]. Group 2: Societal Context in Japan - Japan has a significant percentage of unmarried individuals over 30, with over 30% of this demographic remaining single, indicating a cultural shift towards solitary living [6][8]. - The economic significance of marriage is diminishing in Japan, while the emotional labor burden remains disproportionately on women, leading to a rise in alternative companionship models [8][10]. Group 3: Global Trends - The trend of using AI for companionship is not limited to Japan; it is expanding globally, with applications like Replika gaining millions of users in the U.S. and similar trends observed in South Korea and China [18][20][22]. - The concept of "emotional energy saving" is emerging, where individuals prefer predictable and stable interactions with AI over the complexities of human relationships [24][26].