Daria Yarmolenko, originally from Sumy, Ukraine, and Ernis Kamaridin uulu from the Chon-Alai district of Osh region, Kyrgyzstan, are now building their life in Bishkek. However, their path to this shared life was not easy, filled with trials, doubts, and distances, but also with strong faith in each other.
Daria, who became an architect, was born in 2000, while Ernis, who began his journey in Kyrgyzstan in 1998, went to work in Korea after finishing school.
“My sister and I always dreamed of visiting Korea, but this dream remained just a dream for a long time due to a lack of funds,” recalls Daria. In 2020, while she was studying, fate brought her together with Ernis through social media. He was already in Korea at that time. Their communication started without any expectations, but soon grew into daily video calls and messages, despite the time difference and the thousands of kilometers between them.
Families and friends on both sides were skeptical about their acquaintance, believing that the distance between Ukraine and Korea was too great for a serious relationship. Nevertheless, they continued to hope for the best.
When the war started in Ukraine, Daria spent about seven months at home, and it was during this time that Ernis provided her with moral support. This prompted her to decide to apply for a visa and go to Korea.
In 2022, they met face to face for the first time, spending six months together, which allowed them to strengthen their feelings and relationship in real life.
However, the conversation with their parents became a real test for them. Families on both sides were worried about the differences in culture and religion, which caused a lot of doubts and tears. But ultimately, their loved ones supported their choice.
Daria converted to Islam, and in Korea, they held a Muslim ceremony called "nikah." Ernis's parents were present, which was an important moment for both families. After that, the young couple spent over two more years in Korea, building their life together.
In February 2025, they decided to move to Kyrgyzstan so that Daria could get to know Ernis's family and his homeland better. In the same month, it became known that their family was expecting a new addition.
Currently, Daria and Ernis continue their life in Bishkek, traveling around the country, exploring the culture and traditions, and getting to know relatives.
Daria acknowledges that adapting to a new language and culture is not easy, but Ernis's support helps her cope with the difficulties. “We always support each other and rejoice together,” she says, adding that the family values she discovered in Kyrgyz culture are very important to her.
The couple previously actively engaged in content creation and video projects on social media, but now their life is focused on raising their child. Nevertheless, they plan to return to their favorite activity and continue making videos.
The main goals of the spouses are to live in harmony, grow, and maintain love and respect for each other. “Sometimes it’s hard to believe that we have known each other for six years. Our journey has been full of challenges, but it has made us stronger,” Daria summarizes.
The couple has a son.
