Holidays of Giving

Every year in most countries February 14^th is a special day. People call it Valentine's Day and they exchange valentines. This is a good day to ask someone out and to show affection. It seems romantic but it could be sad also. So many singles try to find someone and want to receive something but the real world is not like a fairy tale.

Korea also has Valentine’s Day but has a different tradition. Usually on Valentine’s Day, females give chocolate to males. It is strange because usually it is the guy who asks the girl out. Interestingly enough, in Korea girls can show their feelings first. You can’t find any guys who will give her candy or chocolate on Valentine’s Day.

In addition to Valentine’s Day, there is “White Day” which corresponds with it. It is March 14^th. This day guys can give flowers or candy to females. Of course usually girls don’t give anything because they already got the chance to one month before. 

There are many stories about why this day was made. So many people believe that this day was made by marketers who wanted to sell more of their chocolate and candy. It looks hilarious but it still works in Korea. Another example is November 11^th. It is called “Bbae-Bbae-ro Day”. People can exchange a snack called “Bbae-Bbae-ro”. It looks like a bar partially dipped in chocolate. Even people who are not couples can give the snack as a thank you. 

Written by: SeungHoon Song

WSU International Student

South Korea