Giving Valentine’s Gifts in Japan and Korea
As I’ve said in a previous post, while a lot of the more cosmopolitan Asian countries celebrate Valentine’s Day, others don’t. Some recognize it, but do in an Asian way.
In Japan, for example, it’s the women who give gifts on this day. Aside from that, as Melissa pointed out, people are also obliged to give close colleagues or associates chocolates to each other even if they feel no romantic feelings. Men, who were lucky to have received gifts on Feb 14 reciprocate the gesture on March 14, usually with a more expensive gift.
What happens to men who don’t receive gifts on V-Day?
[snip] in Korea, the ladies commemorate Valentine’s Day just like the ladies in Japan. Men who didn’t receive anything would gather together on the 14th of April, called the Black day!, to drown their sorrows by eating noodles in black sauce.
More on Valentine’s and White Day Celebration in Japan from Japan-Guide. And here’s an English teacher’s account of Valentine’s Day in Korea. An entertaining read!
Tags: Asia, asia-destinations, asia-holiday, asia-travel, asia-vacation, Japan, Korea, Valentines-DayRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Asia Travelogues, Culture Shock: Asia
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