Move over Valentine’s Day—South Korea has its own unique and sugary celebration on November 11th called Pepero Day (빼빼로 데이)! On this day, people gift each other Pepero sticks (chocolate-covered biscuit sticks) to express affection. The date itself, 11/11, resembles four Pepero sticks lined up, making it the perfect day for this fun and tasty tradition. Here’s everything you need to know about Pepero Day, from its quirky beginnings to how it’s celebrated today!
What is Pepero Day and How Did It Start?
Pepero Day is an unofficial holiday in South Korea celebrated by exchanging boxes of Pepero sticks among friends, family, and especially significant others. This light-hearted day is a chance to show love and appreciation without the pressure that might come with other romantic holidays. Both young and old, singles and couples, take part in this adorable tradition.
Pepero Day is said to have started in the 1990s when middle and high school girls in Busan exchanged Pepero sticks, wishing each other to become tall and slim like the snack. Lotte, the Korean company that produces Pepero, quickly promoted the idea nationwide, making November 11th synonymous with Pepero. In 2011, Pepero Day fell on 11/11/11, a "once-in-a-lifetime" occurrence dubbed "Millennium Pepero Day," sparking an even bigger celebration. Since then, Pepero Day has become one of Korea's most anticipated celebrations.
How is Pepero Day Celebrated?
Celebrating Pepero Day is easy and fun! Most people simply exchange Pepero sticks with friends, classmates, family members, or their crush. Many buy special Pepero gift sets or create their own DIY versions with personalized messages. Some people make homemade Pepero sticks, dipping plain biscuit sticks in melted chocolate and adding toppings like sprinkles, nuts, or crushed cookies—a more personal touch that adds to the day’s charm.
Schools and offices often organize Pepero exchanges, where people anonymously gift Pepero to their friends or colleagues. In early November, it’s common to see Pepero towers and decorations in stores and cafes, adding to the festive atmosphere. Pepero Day is also huge on social media, with people sharing photos of their Pepero gifts and participating in #PeperoDay trends. It’s a colorful, fun moment for everyone to showcase their creativity.
Pepero Day vs. Other “Love Days”
In Korea, there are a few other love-focused holidays, like Valentine’s Day (February 14) and White Day (March 14). Unlike Valentine’s Day, where traditionally women give chocolates to men, and White Day, where men return the favor, Pepero Day is a day for everyone to participate. Whether you’re a couple, single, or just looking to brighten someone’s day, Pepero Day is all about inclusivity and showing appreciation in the sweetest way possible.
Pepero Day Controversies and Fun Facts
Despite its charm, Pepero Day has sparked debates about consumerism. Critics argue that it’s a “holiday” manufactured by Lotte, which is true. November 11th is also Farmer’s Day (농업인의 날) in Korea, aimed at celebrating Korean agriculture. To balance things out, some people promote the idea of exchanging garaetteok (long rice cakes) instead of Pepero to support Korean farmers.
Pepero Day might be unique to Korea, but Japan celebrates a similar holiday called Pocky Day on November 11th, where fans of the Japanese snack participate in social media trends. Pepero Day is also one of Lotte’s biggest sales events—over half of Pepero’s annual sales happen around this time. Many stores even sell DIY Pepero kits in November, allowing fans to create custom creations at home.
Wrapping Up: Celebrate Pepero Day Your Way
Whether you go for the classic chocolate-flavored Pepero or try fun alternatives like almond, strawberry, or even matcha, Pepero Day is a perfect excuse to indulge and share the sweetness. So, grab a box (or make your own) and join South Korea in celebrating one of its most adorable holidays. Happy Pepero Day! 🍫🥖
Comments
Diana Wong said:
November 11th actually carries another meaning to Canadians but nonetheless this is an interesting read! In the past, I have eaten a lot of Peppero sticks without knowing the history!
November 09, 2024