Pepero Day
November 11, Tuesday
Origin of the holiday
The most common version states that the holiday originated in the 1990s among schoolchildren, who gave Pepero to each other wishing to "be slim and tall" like the sticks. Later, the holiday became widely known and was supported by Lotte, the company that produces Pepero. Thanks to marketing, the tradition quickly became popular.
How Pepero Day is celebrated
* People give boxes of Pepero to friends, family, and loved ones.
* Sweets are exchanged in schools, offices, and among colleagues.
* Stores and cafes release special gift packages for the holiday.
* Lovers sometimes make Pepero by hand, giving the gesture a personal meaning.
Variety of Pepero
Pepero is produced in different flavors, which makes the holiday even more interesting. Popular types include:
* Milk chocolate
* Almond or other nut varieties
* Strawberry cream
* Cookies and cream
* Spicy and seasonal flavors
Social and cultural significance
Although the holiday is largely commercial, it serves as a way to show attention and friendliness. For Korean culture, where communication and warmth in relationships are important, exchanging Pepero has become a form of small but pleasant gestures.
Connection with other holidays
Pepero Day is reminiscent of Valentine’s Day but with a lesser romantic emphasis. It highlights the idea of everyday care and friendship. Additionally, November 11 in South Korea is also celebrated as Singles’ Day (not to be confused with the Chinese holiday), which further emphasizes the play with numbers.
Modern perception
Pepero Day remains a bright, kind, and cheerful holiday. It does not carry deep historical meaning but creates an atmosphere of positive interaction, warmth, and joy. The holiday is often seen as an opportunity to show attention to people around you, even through a small sweet gift.
Pepero Day in other years
- 2021 November 11, Thursday
- 2022 November 11, Friday
- 2023 November 11, Saturday
- 2024 November 11, Monday
- 2026 November 11, Wednesday