Asia

In East Asian countries such as Korea, Japan and China, Valentine’s Day is traditionally for women to give male partners or crushes presents. Men reciprocate on Mar. 14, also called White Day. This tradition originated in Japan in 1978, and has spread throughout Asia to Korea, China, Taiwan and Vietnam. Gifts are exchanged between lovers, friends and colleagues. In the past, White Day presents were typically white—white chocolates, candy, marshmallows or accessories—but today, gifts can vary in color.

According to junior John Lee, Valentine’s Day is one of multiple love celebrations in Korea. “Korea has a lot of celebration days, for example the celebration of 100 days in a relationship,” he said. Nonetheless, public community places such as cafés, movie theaters and amusement parks provide special events for couples on Valentine’s Day. “They give more discounts to couples,” Lee said. “For example, at the movies, they give extra popcorn.”

In Southeast Asia, Singapore celebrates Valentine’s Day similarly to the U.S. However, the day is not recognized as an official holiday. Sophomore Joshua Shin said that Valentine’s Day is not just for couples, but also for friends to exchange presents. Public events are also hosted, such as music carnivals and fashion shows for the entire week of Valentine’s Day. Confessions are often made with flowers, and different shades are used to convey different messages. For example, red roses represent love and respect while pale pink roses symbolize grace and joy.

School events similar to the SEC Valentine’s Day grams were organized in Lee’s Korean school. “We sold candy and made a name tag for people to send it to someone anonymously, or to send it with their name on it,” Lee said. Likewise, students at Shin’s Singaporean school participated in similar activities. “You can buy candy and then gift it to someone in person,” Shin said.