Why Adult Adoption Has Become A Means To Maintain The Legacy In Family Businesses In Japan?

Japan is characterised by the one of the highest rates of adoptions in the world. Japan boasts one of the oldest family-run businesses in the world, from centuries old Guests Houses to big corporate firms. Many Japanese firms like Suzuki, Matsui securities break the ideas of dynastic decline by maintaining a steady family legacy. The reason for this is adoption. Nearly 98% of adoptions in Japan are adult men, between 20 to 30 years of age. The practice takes many forms like a mukoyōshi who is an adopted husband, marrying into his wife’s family and accepting their surname. The adopted sons who don’t marry into the family generally take a bride outside the family. Though the practice has gained momentum as a modern practice, it is prevalent ever since the Japanese civil code mentioned that only a male child can succeed the family assets and business. If in case there is no male heir, adoption is an option.