Questions & Answers

Yes and No. February 14th is more commonly known as Red Day in Korea, although you will see promotional signs for 'Valentine's Day'. On Red Day, women give chocolate to men. At one time, a gift of homemade chocolate was a clear ‘you’re the one’ message. Over the years, other small and large (expensive) gifts have been added to the list. However, a recent survey by a matchmaking company (and reported in the media) reveals that men’s wish lists have changed, in part due to the current economic climate. Apparently, the majority of respondents would prefer to receive cash this Friday, followed by those wanting a practical gift. Only about 7% said they’d like to receive chocolate. Many indicated that they’d love to have their girlfriend cook a meal for them, while the biggest group said they’d be happy with a kiss. Flowers and unpractical gifts such as ‘paper dolls’ etc. were among the unwanted items.

The men get their turn ion March 14th - White Day. On this day, men are expected to reciprocate with non-chocolate candy to the woman/women who remembered them the previous month. Consequently, you’ll see all kinds of candy offering in all of the same places as you saw chocolate in February.

This gift giving in February and March is generally limited to unmarried people in the 20's. And if you are an unmarried 20-something and you didn’t receive anything in either February or March, you can join other singles at Chinese restaurants around the country to eat black bean paste noodles (jjajangmyun 짜장면)on April 14th, aka Black Day.

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