For Finnish diplomat Mikko Koivumaa, being an ikumen (men who take an active role in ikuji, or child rearing) comes naturally.

Hailing from a country known to have a high level of gender equality, Koivumaa says ikumen is standard practice in Finland.

"In Finland, there's a social welfare policy that enables that. Also men work short hours — especially compared with Japan — which enables an ikumen lifestyle seven days a week," the 36-year-old said.