Ways to enjoy Valentine's Day in Korea

By Chantal Terblanche

Valentine’s Day in Korea is not just another romantic holiday; it is a unique and culturally rich tradition that has evolved into a special day with its own distinct customs.

Unlike the Western practice where both men and women exchange gifts, Valentine’s Day in Korea follows a unique pattern where women are the primary gift-givers, offering chocolates to men as a sign of affection. This tradition, which originated in Japan and later spread to Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam, has been embraced wholeheartedly by Koreans, making Feb. 14 a key date for couples and businesses alike.

Retail stores and supermarkets start setting up elaborate displays filled with popular treats, such as Ferrero Rocher, Twix and Chupa Chups, a week before Valentine’s Day. Other presents, such as beauty products and flowers, have also gained popularity. Many other businesses also take advantage of the occasion to promote jewelry, lingerie and romantic gift sets.

In Korea, women take the lead by giving chocolates to their significant others, a gesture that symbolizes love and admiration. Traditionally, men who receive chocolates are expected to reciprocate on White Day (March 14) by giving gifts to the women who expressed their affection.

Korea’s unique calendar includes not just Valentine’s Day but also 12 other love-themed days on the 14th of each month, such as White Day next month, Black Day in April and Hug Day on Dec. 14.

Although it is primarily a day for couples, the modern take on Valentine’s Day has expanded to include giving chocolates to colleagues, family members and close friends. It also is increasingly common for men to give gifts on this holiday. This change reflects Korea’s evolving perspectives on love and appreciation.

For those looking to make their Valentine’s Day extra special, there are plenty of romantic activities to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular ways to celebrate the day in Korea:

Crafting hand-made couple rings

Rather than buying pre-made rings, many couples choose to design and create their own rings at accessory workshops. These workshops provide an intimate and meaningful experience, allowing couples to craft a unique symbol of their love.

Locking love at N Seoul Tower

One of the most famous couple activities in Seoul is visiting N Seoul Tower and attaching a love lock to a fence with their names inscribed on it. These locks come without keys, symbolizing an unbreakable bond between partners.

Couple photo shoots

Professional couple photo shoots are a growing trend in Korea. Whether in a studio or using a quick photo booth, couples can capture their love in photo prints.

Caricature drawing for couples

In bustling areas like Myeong-dong and Hongdae, caricature artists create exaggerated and humorous portraits of couples, making for a unique and memorable Valentine’s Day keepsake.

Picking out couple's outfits or accessories

Couple culture in Korea is strong, and matching outfits, phone cases, bracelets and rings are common gifts exchanged between partners.

Skin care products for men

Korea is known for its high-quality skin care products, and Valentine’s Day is a great time to gift men with premium skin care sets. Brands like Primera’s “Men in the Pink” set have gained popularity as a practical yet thoughtful gift.

All-in-one romantic hotel packages

Many hotels offer Valentine’s Day packages, including couple spas, intimate dinners and sightseeing tours. Lotte Hotel’s Strawberry Buffet, for example, has been a favorite for couples looking to indulge in a romantic experience.

A love story that stands the test of time

Korean culture has many famous love stories, but one of the most cherished is "The Tale of Chunhyang." Set in the Joseon Dynasty, the story follows Chunhyang and Yi Mongryong, who fall in love and secretly marry. Separated by circumstances, Chunhyang remains faithful despite hardships, proving that true love withstands all obstacles. This timeless tale reflects the depth of love celebrated on Valentine’s Day in Korea.

Speed dating

SeoulShare, a community on Meetup.com, offers a speed dating event this Saturday afternoon for those looking for love. Participants should be aged between 30 and 45, born between 1980 and 1995. Visit bit.ly/4aPmEnV for more information.

Language exchange

This Friday evening, GSM Tables in Gangnam hosts a social event to get people practicing the language of love in their target language. Visit bit.ly/4aSnyjk for more information.

Yoga and meditation self-love

SeoulShare offers an event this Saturday morning at Arvor Studio in Gangnam, featuring a 45-minute yoga session, followed by 15 minutes of singing bowl meditation. Participation costs 50,000 won, or 35,000 won for SeoulShare members. Visit bit.ly/40PRY1c for more information.

Filipino romance novelist

Yes24 in Yeouido hosts a Valentine's Day event Friday afternoon celebrating Filipino literature with Mica De Leon, a Filipino writer of "swoony romance comedy novels." There will be a discussion of her book, "Love on the Second Read." There will also be an Original Pilipino Music (OPM) performance sung in Korean. Visit bit.ly/3Q8dcCz for more information.

Making perfume, cologne, candles, bath bombs

Songtan Entertainment District in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, is hosting a fun and fragrant afternoon, giving participants the opportunity to make their own perfume, cologne, candles and bath bombs, all from scratch. Visit bit.ly/3WRsK12 for more information.

Pub crawls

The Seoul Pub Crawl & International Party hosts pub crawls this Friday in major party areas of the city. Visit bit.ly/3Qw3ni5 for the Hongdae event and go to bit.ly/3WPjSJx for Itaewon.

Chantal Terblanche, from South Africa, lives here with her dogs, Samsung and Puggles. She runs the blog ClumsyinKorea.com and the Korea Events group on Facebook.