As part of the "Zhubaılar" column, we will tell you about Daria Yarmolenko, originally from Ukraine, and Ernis Kamaridin uulu from Kyrgyzstan.
Currently, their family lives in Bishkek, but the road to this life was not easy, full of trials, doubts, and faith in each other.
Daria was born in 2000 in Sumy, Ukraine, and has an education in architecture.
Ernis, born in 1998 in the Chon-Alai district of the Osh region of Kyrgyzstan, went to work in Korea after finishing school.
“For a long time before meeting my future husband, my sister and I dreamed of a trip to Korea, but something always got in the way: we lacked funds, and the dream remained just a dream,” Daria recalls.
In 2020, while she was still studying, fate brought her together with Ernis through social networks. At that time, he was already living in Korea. Their communication began as a friendship, without any particular expectations. However, it soon grew into daily video calls and messages, despite the time difference and the thousands of kilometers between them.
Relatives and friends doubted that their connection would grow into something serious, as the distance between Ukraine and Korea seemed insurmountable. But the girl did not lose hope.
When the war began in Ukraine, Daria spent about seven months in her homeland, and it was during this difficult time that Ernis provided her with moral support. During this challenging period, she made the decision to apply for a visa and go to Korea,” she shares.
In 2022, they finally met. The six months spent together strengthened their relationship, which was no longer limited to virtual communication.
A challenging stage was discussing their relationship with their parents. Concerns arose on both sides due to differences in nationality and religion. There were tears and long conversations, but ultimately the families accepted their choice.
Daria converted to Islam, and their "nikah" (Muslim wedding) took place in Korea, attended by Ernis's parents. This became an important event for both families. Soon after, the newlyweds spent over two years together in Korea, building their life.
In February 2025, they decided to move to Kyrgyzstan so that Daria could get to know Ernis's family and his native culture better. In the same month, the couple learned that their family was expecting a new addition.
Today, Daria and Ernis live in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, travel around the country, study the culture and traditions, and get to know the customs and relatives.
Daria admits that she finds it difficult to adapt to the new culture and language, but her husband's support helps her overcome the challenges.
“We always support each other and rejoice together. I have discovered important family values of Kyrgyz culture: respect for elders, care for loved ones, and a warm attitude towards children. These principles strengthen the family and make life more harmonious,” she says.
Previously, the couple actively created videos and creative projects on social media, but now their life is focused on their child. Nevertheless, they are gradually returning to their favorite activity—content creation.
Their main goals are to live in harmony, grow, and maintain love, respect, and support.
“Sometimes it’s hard to believe that we have known each other for six years. Our journey has not been easy, but it has made us stronger and closer to each other,” Daria concludes.
The couple has a son.
