How To Celebrate Valentine's Day in South Korea

Alas, the holiday of love. How is Valentine’s Day in South Korea celebrated? What do Koreans even do and why? Valentine’s Day is celebrated a bit differently in Korea as compared to the rest of the world. If you’re wondering how to spend a Korean Valentine’s Day, then this blog post is for you. You’ll find some unique date spots and learn more about the holidays that go along with this couple obsessed country.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does South Korea celebrate Valentine’s Day?

While in the United States, both sides of the party give gifts, typically in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, only women give gifts on February 14th. Usually women give men chocolates as a sign of affection.

2. Do Koreans celebrate White Day?

If you’re thinking it’s super unfair only men get gifts on Valentine’s Day, men have the chance to return the favor on White Day celebrated March 14th. The man gives a gift three times the value what he received on Valentine’s Day. The gift should be something white such as marshmallows, a fancy pasta dinner date, flowers, or jewelry.

3. What is Black Day in Korea?

This is celebrated on April 14th by singles. On this day you eat jajangmyun (Chinese Black noodles). If no one gave you shit or you didn’t give anyone else a gift, then you can take your sexy self to the nearest Chinese restaurant and win by eating an extra large bowl of happiness.

4. What is Rose Day in Korea?

Rose Day is typically celebrated on May 14th. Whether you’re single or romantically committed, you can get down with some roses. If you’re in Korea, I highly suggest checking out the Rose Garden at Olympic Park.

5. What is Pepero Day in Korea?

Pepero Day is celebrated on November 11th. The logic behind it is that 11/11 looks like Pepero and therefore you should give your sweet some deliciously crunchy sticks made with chocolate.

6. How do you say Happy Valentine’s Day in Korean?

The way you say it in Korean is 해피 발렌타인 데이! (haepi ballentain dei!)

7. What is the difference between Valentine’s Day and White Day?

The biggest difference is who gives what to whom. On Valentine’s Day in Korea, women give chocolates to men. On White Day, men give something white to women. Single men can also use this day to confess their love for a special someone they’ve been admiring.

Korean Couple Holidays

Strangely enough, the 14th day of each month celebrates a Korean couple holiday. Here is the list of every single one.

January 14 – Diary Day is holiday is to exchange schedulers with loved ones and friends to record important dates such as birthdays and anniversaries.
February 14 – Valentine’s Day in South Korea is celebrated by women giving men chocolate.
March 14 – White Day is when men return the favor by giving white foods or jewelry.
April 14 – Black Day is for all the singles to eat jajangmyun (Chinese black noodles).
May 14 – Rose Day is where you exchange roses or something yellow as a token of affection.
June 14 – Kiss Day in Korea is pretty self-explanatory.
July 14 – Silver Day is where couples exchange something silver like rings or jewelry. This would be a good time to talk couple rings.
August 14 – Green Day is pretty much another excuse to get sloshed off soju. Cheers!
September 14 – Photo Day is when professional studios in Korea get booked up.
October 14 – Wine Day is a wonderful excuse to get a delicious bottle of wine and drink it together.
November 11 – Peppero Day is a holiday to give the chocolate coated thin bread sticks to a lover. I
November 14 – Movie Day is when you’ll find couples packing cinemas to catch a flick together.
December 14 – Hug Day is where you get cozy with your boo bear.
December 25 – Christmas in Korea is considered the most romantic couple holiday of all.

Valentine’s Day Korean Phrases

Now let’s move on on how to seduce your sweet pea. You don’t necessarily have to use them only on Valentine’s day in Korea, but any time.

I like you. 나는 너를 좋아해 (Naneun neoreul Joahae)
I think of you as more than just a friend. 나는 너를 친구 이상으로 생각해 (Naneun neoreul chingu isangeuro saengakhae)
Will you be my Valentine (bf/gf)? 나랑 사귈래? (Narang saguillae?)
Can I kiss you? 키스해도 돼? (Kiss-haedo dwe?)
Kiss me please. 뽀뽀해 줘 (ppoppohae jwo)
Stay here with me. 내 곁에 있어줘 (Nae gachi isseo jweo)
I’m yours. 난 네꺼야 (Nan Ne-kkeoya)
I want to be with you. 같이 있고 싶어(gachi itgo sipeo)
I miss your smile. 소가 정말 그리워 (misoga jeongmal geuriwo)
We’re a match made in heaven. 우리는 천생연분이야 (urineun cheonsaengyeonbuniya)

For The Fuck Boys and Fuck Girls

I don’t judge and if you wanna get yours, get it. As long as you’re not destroying yourself, others, or damaging property. After all, nothing says I wanna get into your pants like ramen and a DVD room. You’re welcome.

Wanna go get ramen? 라면 먹을래? (ramyun mokgul gallae?)
Wanna go to the DVD room? DVD 방에 갈래? (dvd bang ae galae?)
You have a beautiful body. 넌몸매가 예뻐 ( neon mom mae ga yeabbo)

Romantic Date Ideas in Seoul

If you wanna celebrate big with your sweetie, here are some romantic dates in Seoul you’ll never forget. Valentine’s Day in Seoul is usually a big and extravagant affair and you’ll oftentimes see men giving flowers to their girlfriends.

1. Everland

During winter, there are usually special foreigners discounts for Everland tickets. In my opinion, this is the most fun time to go since there aren’t many people or children, and you can ride the T-Express multiple times without a large wait. In addition, they usually have a romantic illumination display at night.

2. Jamsil Station Area

This is one of my favorite areas in Seoul since you can go to the Lotte World Tower and Lotte World Amusement Park. In addition you can enjoy all the Christmas illuminations that stay up until the end of February (but are craftily redecorated to have hearts everywhere). There’s even a Guy Lian Belgian chocolate cafe where you can eat delicious desserts.

3. Namsan Tower

Many famous Korean dramas have had scenes filmed here. Check out The Place Dining which features Italian food and excellent views of the Seoul skyline. In any case, you should call ahead of time to make a reservation. I also recommend taking the Namsan Cable Car up in the evening for ultimate romantic vibes.

4. Book A Romantic Han River Sunset Cruise

I can’t think of anything more romantic for Valentine’s Day in South Korea than taking a cruise long the Han River. It’s a breathtaking experience to watch the sun set as the city lights up. You can book your romantic sunset Han River Cruise here.

5. Staycation at The Banyan Tree Seoul

The Banyan Tree in Seoul is one of my absolute most favorite luxury hotels. Have a staycation on their gorgeous property and dine at Festa by Mingoo. Not only that, I highly recommend booking the in pool room with views of the Namsan Tower and the city. Book your room at the Banyan Tree Seoul here.

6. Make Couple Rings Together

Couple rings in Korea are the ultimate statement to show that your person is well… Your person! Since there’s a huge couple culture in Korean this would be such a fun experience. This class is where you will handmade your own rings. It’s a great experience to do together and will have you making cherished memories. Book your Seoul custom ring making experience here.

7. Have a Drink at Seoul Sky

The mood is what sets the date. And nothing is as romantic as getting drinks at the sixth highest building in the world while watching the city light up. The ambiance will make you fall in love with each other and Seoul city. Book your tickets to Seoul Sky here.

Solo Valentine’s Day Date Ideas in Seoul

If you’re like me and a very single pringle, no worries! These activities can be enjoyed alone or as a Galentine’s get together. Valentine’s day in South Korea doesn’t have to be a dismal event. After all, you can have fun on your own with the “holiday” of love.

I personally avoid going out at all on Valentine’s Day or whatever weekend is closest to the holiday. But if you do wanna go out and get down with your bad self… Here’s some ideas to relax you!

1. Get Pampered At Whoo Spa

I promise no one loves you like you love you. Why not treat yourself to a Korean glass skin facial? Trazy even has a special VIP Package that comes with a back massage. Yes please! Click here to spoil yourself at Whoo Spa.

2. Get Your Nails Done at OU Nail Salon

There’s nothing quite like Korean nail art. I loved getting my nails done here and they had so many cool designs. I got so many compliments on my nails, honestly, I can’t wait to go back to Korea and get them done again! You can book your experience at the OU Nail Salon here.

3. Splurge On Some Jewelry!

While Korea may have all sorts of cute accessories for cheap, I recommend going shopping for jewelry at the Jogno Sam-ga area. Not only do they sell couple rings there, but also various pieces of beautiful jewelry. Koreans are excellent copy cats so I guarantee you’ll find spot on dupes of some favorite pieces you’ve been eyeing from designer brands.

4. Plan A Solo Date At Home

One of my favorite things to do is to have girl dinner. I’m talking about a charcuterie board you made yourself. I get my favorite wine and I watch one of my favorite films. Or sometimes I’ll cozy up with my Kindle Oasis and read my smutty romance books. Because hey. I’m a single lady and I need to get my shits and giggles somewhere. For my favorite recommendations of spicy fantasy romance books, click here.

5. Take Yourself Out To Dinner and A Movie

If you can stand seeing all the lovey dovey couples in Seoul, then all power to you! Make yourself a movie reservation and book yourself a solo dinner date at your favorite restaurant. I would count an excellent date as getting dinner at Gatten Sushi at the Lotte World Mall in Jamsil, eating cake at Guy Lian, and then catching a flick at the CGV.

Galentine’s Day Date Ideas in Seoul

1. Barbie Salon de Ddalki

Ever since the Barbie Movie came out, this already iconic doll has become even more in demand. Going to the JW Marriott Dongdaemun‘s Barbie Salon de Ddalki has always been a tradition for myself and my friend Linda from Linda Goes East. Here you’ll find a delicious strawberry buffet that’s so amazingly delicious. For more information on the Barbie Salon de Ddalki, click here.

2. Have Brunch at Mamma Mia Dosan

This is literally one of my favorite cafes in all of Seoul. They have some of the best desserts around and it’s perfect for your Galentine’s Day in South Korea. Get a few friends, dress up cute, hang out, and take lots of cute pictures.

3. Take A Fun Class

There are so many interesting classes in Seoul. Whatever strikes your fancy, you can definitely do! There’s nothing better than getting together for an afternoon to hang out with your gal pals and participate in a class. Below are my top suggestions.

4. Go See The Wild Wild Dream Musical

How about going to see a show for Korean Magic Mike? We ladies get to have our fun too. Come see hot shirtless guys dance and put on a performance you’ll never forget. I guarantee it’ll leave you wanting to take a cold shower after. Book your tickets to see the Wild Wild Dream Musical here.

5. Have a Photo Session at The Color Pool Museum

If you’re not getting balls deep the way you want to on Valentine’s Day, you can always do it in the giant ball pit at the Color Pool Museum. This Instagram worthy museum in Seoul is pink, fun, and full of great opportunities for you and your gal pals. You can book your tickets to the Color Pool Museum here.

6. Go To An Escape Room

Nothing solidifies the bonds of friendship like a hypothetical near death experience. I personally love the mystery of Escape Rooms and its a thrilling way to keep yourself entertained for an hour. Book your Seoul Escape Room experience here.

7. Have An Afternoon Tea Party At The Park Hyatt Seoul

This is one of my absolute favorite afternoon tea experiences in Seoul. What a better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in South Korea than beautiful views of Gangnam and delicious afternoon tea food and snacks? The Lounge at the Park Hyatt Seoul always has season afternoon teas so you’re not gonna want to miss their strawberry afternoon tea!

8. Rent A Hanbok and Visit the Grand Palaces

Participating in a culture experience is a great way to make friends in Korea. One of my favorite activities in Seoul is to rent a hanbok and take photos. It’s all about making this priceless memories. So… Grab your gal pals and have a fun filled day at the palaces. Book your hanbok rental and photo session here.

9. Have Drinks At The Alice Speakeasy

The Alice Speakeasy is a super bougie bar in Cheongdam. Drawing their inspiration from 1920s prohibition America, their front is a flower shop while the back bar is Alice and Wonderland inspired. Even their drinks are inspired by the story.

10. Go To The Norebang

Wanna sing about your woes and heartbreaks? Or get down to your favorite decade jams? Many norebangs in Seoul have a huge library of songs to sing to. Grab some drinks, snacks, and friends and have an entire night of singing.

Valentine’s Day Korean style is a very unique and Asian twist on one of the biggest commercialized love holidays on the planet. Korean Valentine’s Day can be a lot of fun if you get creative!

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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December 17, 2023 | 0 comments