Thailand has topped a recently released global ranking of marital infidelity, with 51% of married individuals admitting to having been unfaithful. The data, compiled from sources such as World Population Review and Insider Monkey, places the Southeast Asian country well above others — not just in Asia, but globally.
Close behind are Denmark (46%), Germany and Italy (both 45%), and Norway (41%). This puts two Nordic nations — Denmark and Norway — among the top five globally.
What makes Thailand’s position especially noteworthy is that it tops both the male and female global infidelity rankings:
- Thai men hold the highest infidelity rate worldwide
- Thai women rank second highest globally in female infidelity
The studies suggest that cultural factors such as the mia noi (minor wife) tradition and broader societal tolerance contribute to the high numbers. While infidelity by men is often socially overlooked or even expected, the growing rate among Thai women suggests shifting dynamics in relationships — particularly in urban settings.
Thai men often stray due to emotional neglect or boredom, while women tend to be driven by feelings of rejection or emotional disconnection. Despite the similar behavior, the societal stigma for women remains higher.
Nordic countries: emotional impact is different
In the Nordic region, infidelity rates are also high:
- Denmark: 46%
- Norway: 41%
- Finland: 36%
- Sweden: approx. 35–36%
However, unlike Thailand, the gender gap is far less pronounced. Studies suggest that men and women in Nordic countries cheat at similar rates — a pattern consistent with the high level of gender equality in the region.
Where the Nordics differ is in emotional response rather than behavior. A Norwegian psychological study found that:
- Men are more affected by sexual infidelity
- Women are more distressed by emotional infidelity
This distinction aligns with research elsewhere in Europe and North America, and reflects deeper cultural narratives around trust, intimacy, and autonomy in relationships.
Other ASEAN countries cheat less
Thailand’s 51% stands in sharp contrast to its ASEAN neighbors:
- Singapore: ~14%
- Malaysia: ~14%
- Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines: No recent global ranking data, but consistently lower and affected by more conservative cultural norms
Thailand is the only Asian country to appear in the top 20 global infidelity rankings — making it a clear outlier in the region.
Are Nordic expats in Thailand influenced?
One question remains unstudied: Are expats living in Thailand more likely to be unfaithful than their counterparts back home? Does the high Thai infidelity score rub off on Nordic expatriates living in Thailand?
Until such research data emerges, the possibility that local habits may rub off on foreign nationals — including Nordics — remains speculative but relevant.
