Valentine’s Day and White Day

It’s already February! And Valentine’s Day is right around the corner!

But did you know that Valentine’s Day in South Korea, as well as in Japan, Taiwan, and China, is all about the women giving and men receiving? (Ha! Isn’t that everyday?! Am I right ladies??)  😉

But it’s all good because March 14th is “White Day” which is when it’s all about the men giving and women receiving. This is much more like the Valentine’s Day I’m familiar with in the States.

Yes, there’s mutual gift giving but it’s largely been about the ladies getting flowers and candy. And the men tend to be an afterthought. (The way it should be!… Just kidding!…Really!)

Valentine’s Day and White Day are considered two of the “love” holidays (unofficially, of course) in South Korea. I don’t know who made this up. I don’t think anyone knows! But it’s a good excuse to celebrate with your significant other.

We’re all familiar with Valentine’s Day and it’s English roots going back to Saint Valentine. We give candy, cards, flowers, and other gifts.

But where does “White Day” come from?

Supposedly it originated from a confectionery company in Japan. The “white” comes from the marshmallow candy they tried to market. Even though the candy was unsuccessful in gaining popularity, the “white” part of the day stuck because people saw it as symbolizing the purity of young love.

And eventually, companies marketed white chocolate as part of the “White Day” theme.

Also, it’s customary for the “White Day” gift form the guy to be at least twice as nice as whatever he received from the girl on Valentine’s Day. I could totally get on board with this idea! Right?

What Are The Young Folks Doing?

When I was a kid, we exchanged Valentine’s Day cards in our class. So I wonder if in South Korea, only boys get cards on Valentine’s Day and then only girls get cards on White Day? I very much doubt it, but who knows? If you know, please share in the comments!