A Guide to Celebrating Valentine's Day with a Korean Twist

The Origins of Valentine's Day: A Brief History

Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14th every year, has its roots in ancient Roman and Christian traditions. The holiday is named after Saint Valentine, a Catholic priest who was martyred for performing secret marriages during the reign of Emperor Claudius II.

Despite its origins being rooted in Christianity, modern-day celebrations have become increasingly commercialized and focused on romantic love. However, this doesn't mean that we can't learn from the past and incorporate traditional Korean customs into our own Valentine's Day celebrations.

Korean Traditions to Incorporate into Your Valentine's Day Celebrations

One of the most significant Korean traditions that can be incorporated into your Valentine's Day celebrations is the concept of 'jeong' or affection. In Korea, it's customary to show appreciation and gratitude towards those who have made a positive impact in our lives.

Another important aspect is the emphasis on food and drink. Traditional Korean desserts like hotteok and yaksik are perfect for sharing with loved ones, while soju and makgeolli can be enjoyed as a symbol of unity and togetherness.

Modern-Day Celebrations: A Fusion of East Meets West

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards blending Western and Eastern cultural practices. This can be seen in the rise of Korean-style Valentine's Day gifts such as customized phone cases and personalized jewelry.

It's also important to note that Korea has its own unique way of celebrating love and affection, which is often overshadowed by Western influences. By embracing these differences, we can create a more inclusive and culturally rich celebration.