Things that Korean Couples Do on Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is celebrated all around the world. Today we will learn about how couples in Korea celebrate Valentine’s Day. Come take a deep dive into what Korean couples do on this very special day. Perhaps these activities will inspire you and your loved one to take on a Korean couple themed date this year! 

Celebrated every year on February 14 Valentine’s Day happens in Korea. But South Korea doesn’t just have one day for love. The 14th of every month is considered ‘love day’. For Korean couples this means that there are lots of days throughout the year to express their love!

Just like in other countries many stores around the country display popular chocolates and Valentine’s Day themed gift baskets filled with goodies. These items can be marketed as early as January. Many Korean couple catered items are sold throughout the year due to so many holidays for them. 

Below are all of the love days that Korean couples celebrate on the 14th of every month:

On Valentine’s Day in Korea, the girls are required to give chocolate to the boys rather than vice versa. This is not common in the West where often boys are the one showering girls with love through roses and chocolates. 

Today, many girls now give their boyfriends gifts and other items instead of just chocolate on Valentine’s day. Like many other countries, there are many heart shaped chocolate boxes, candies and chocolate bars on Valentine’s Day for girls to give. Korean couples love to give each other gifts too like matching outfits, small accessories or whatever else to express their affection.

Just like everyone else, Korean couples go on dates on Valentine’s Day. There are many things to do for couples in Korea, as South Korea has one of the most popular couple cultures. 

Starbucks and Sulbing often make Valentine’s inspired desserts for couples to try. Korean couples rush to cafes to spend couple time. You too can head to these places and share a lovely sweet with that special someone in your life! 

The best fruit during this season is strawberries and you will definitely find Korean couples going to different strawberry themed cafes or dessert buffets. Strawberries are quite popular and ironically some do come shaped as a heart, perfect for this special day. 

What is better than a romantic meal on Valentine’s Day? For dinner, head to a nice restaurant and have a fancy meal with delicious dessert. Feel the vibes on this romantic night. 

One popular activity that Korean couples like to do on Valentine’s Day is dress up and visit Bukchon Hanok Village. You can dress up with your significant other and take photos together. Walk hand in hand through these wonderful villages and see the beauty of architecture dating back to the Joseon period. 

What is better than to have a spa day? You can see couples also at the spa or relaxing together in a pool on this day. Rather than a high maintenance date, a spa date is more comfortable and calm. Spas are popular too since the work culture in Korea can be very demanding. Korean couples can be seen at bath houses hanging out together and going to the sauna. This helps them to rest from work and unwind. In addition, there is always a couple’s massage which is a must try!

4.1 Head to Namsan Seoul Tower, one of the most romantic places in Seoul for Valentine’s Day. You can add your lock with millions of others on this tower, a sign to claim that your love will last as long as the lock stays attached. Korean couples flock here to establish their eternal love on the fences of this tower. 

4.2 Ride a tandem bike at Yeouido Park. Ride the famous bikes that you see in K-dramas and make your wish come true. On a tandem bike you can have a fun and cute experience while also seeing the parks several themed sites. Other Korean couples will join you on this adorable adventure!

4.3 Go to Everland and act like a kid at their amusement park. Koreans love amusement parks and what could be more romantic than clinging onto your loved one as you ride roller coasters. 

You can go on a movie date. Like many other Koreans, going to the movies or a movie room with DVDs is a nice way to spend intimate time with your lover. Check out Tempur Cinema that has reclining seats to make a bed as you watch a movie. Spend a cute and snug time there while watching a movie! 

6.1 Couple rings. 

You can make customized couple rings at any custom jewelry shop. Couple rings are super popular in Korea to represent dedication to your partner and can add a nice touch to any outfit. Every Korean couple in Korea has couple rings. 

6.2 Serenade each other at noraebang.

Noraebangs are super popular in Korea and something to enjoy with your loved one. Sing your heart out and profess your love through your favorite love songs at these iconic rooms. 

6.3 Watch the bridge at Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain. 

Known for its famous lights, the Banpo Bridge has lights that will mesmerize you. You and your lover can grab some instant ramen and some soju and go drink to celebrate Valentine’s Day while watching its beautiful light show. Join the other Korean couples as you listen to music too! 

Here are some fun facts about Valentine’s Day in Korea that you  may not have known: 

1. Valentine’s day is only celebrated amongst young non-married couples in Korea.

2. The money you spend on chocolate to give to your partner represents how much you love the person you are buying it for. 

3. These are the most popular chocolates and sweets given on Valentine’s Day in Korea:

• Ferrero Rocher

• Chupa Chups

• Twix bars

• Pepero

4. If the woman takes the role to initiate the date on Valentine’s day she will pay for all expenses and activities on this day. 

5. Public displays of affection are not common in Korea, so during the days of love and Valentine’s Day these days are dedicated to these actions. 

6. Did you know that in some cases, Valentine’s day is the day when women confess their love to a man? 

Valentine's Day is all about sharing your love with the one you care about most and spending time with one another and cherishing each other. Koreans celebrate this holiday in many cute ways. We hope that these Valentine’s Day dates inspire you next time you celebrate Valentine's Day!