Ever wondered where in the world people actually spend a holiday wondering why they are single? Fear not because in South Korea, there is an unofficial holiday called Black Day!
Why am I bringing this up, even though it's after Valentine's Day? Well, this special Korean holiday happens on April 14 (which will be here before you know it)!
For context, this holiday takes place a month after White Day (March 14), where men give gifts back to the women who gave them chocolates on Valentine's Day. It is also observed in Japan, Taiwan, China, and Vietnam. I just love Wikipedia's examples for common gifts on White Day: "white chocolate, cookies, jewelry, lingerie, and marshmellows." Priceless.
Anywho... South Korea only celebrates Black Friday. Single people actually dress up in black attire for mourning, get together with their single friends, talk about their lack of intimate relationships and black-colored food. Jjajangmyeon is the flagship dish for this holiday (and it looks yummy)!
As any good businessman would, as a lot of marketers and businesses got a hold of this holiday, and commercialized it with jjajangmyeon eating contests and matchmaking events! I'm looking at you Hallmark...
I've noticed all the talk about Galentine's Day and the conversations about Valentine's Day being more than just a romantic holiday, so would it be fair to celebrate our own Singles Day? We have this, so that's a start; but probably being more vocal about it. Or another thing - just not care. If you're without a sweetheart, don't worry about it too much! As long as you have you, that's all the matters until you find the right one!
