Analysis of Commuting Times and Methods for Wives and Husbands in Dual-earner Couples

Abstract

In this study, we compare the commuting times and means of wives and husbands in dual-earner couples using the data from the Korean Time Use Survey in 2019. Frist, we find that commuting time is shorter for wives than for husbands, and more pronounced differences were revealed in couples with children. Second, the proportions of using the car is higher for husbands, suggesting that husbands have better mobility resources than wives. Third, regression results indicate that wives with their own or spouses’ income levels higher, or with preschool child and long working hours, have less commuting time. Our findings propose that the household responsibility hypothesis is still valid. This study suggests that it is necessary to consider the vehicle system for couples along with the establishment of a dense public transportation network. In order to guarantee high-quality employment opportunities for married women, households and childcare policies for dual-earner couples must precede above all else.