As in the US, St. Valentine’s Day is a kind of a romantic day for Koreans but it’s somewhat different from here how they celebrate this day. In Korea, usually, women give chocolates to men as an expression of love on St. Valentine’s Day. Originally, the meaning of this chocolate is a kind of romantic thing but these days many Korean women give chocolates to men around them just for friendship. As I worked in the company, I always gave chocolates to my colleagues on St. Valentine’s Day.Tomorrow is March 14 and it is White Day in Korea. On White Day, men give women candies in return for the chocolates they received on St. Valentine’s Day.
Besides St. Valentine’s Day and White Day, there are many special days which young people celebrate just for fun. For example, April 14 is Black Day. Black Day is for the singles who did not give or receive any romantic chocolates or candies. They eat “Jajangmyeon”, Chinese noodle whose color is black, on April 14. These days, marketing campaigns of chocolate and candy companies are so conspicuous that I sometimes have ill feeling to buy them for Valentine’s Day and White Day. However, Koreans who are poor at expressing their feelings such as love, friendship, and gratitude even to their closest friends, family and a lover may need these days as chances to express their heart.
wow~awesome! the candies are very beautiful. actually, we gave a gift to daughter's teachers at that day. the name of chocolate is Godiba? it's a little bit eapensive but my family like to give a gift to my friends. but you know I almost forget the White Day, but my Korean classmate told me about that. I usually give some candies to my friends who don't have a boy-friend but I almost forget about it. humm~chocolate and candy~
ReplyDeleteI like that tradition.... it sounds more fun!... cause one day is special for each gender... I want to celebrate in that way to!... and is it in every month right?....
ReplyDeletesoo great! :)
have a good weekend!
Yes is interesting that sometimes even if is the same celebration, in different countries, could be realized in different ways. For example, in my country, St. Valentine's Day is only a couples day. If you have a boy/girlfriend you have someone who spend the day with and some to give a present. By the other hand, if your are not having a relationship it would be really weird to give a present to other person.
ReplyDeleteKay - I love the pictures of your Valentine candies. They are so cute! I also enjoy learning about the Korean tradition. The black noodles tradition is so funny...and a little bit sad. I feel sorry for single people on that day. :( Anyways, thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteDon't forget to post your other blogs...just a friendly reminder! :)
Amanda :)