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Pepero Day (빼빼로 데이), celebrated on November 11 each year in South Korea, is a fun, snack-centered holiday that involves gifting and sharing Pepero sticks — thin, chocolate-covered biscuit sticks similar to Pocky (Japanese snack). It is said that this date was chosen because “11.11” looks like four Pepero sticks standing in a row, making it a perfect visual match for the treat.
Origins of Pepero Day
The mythical origins of Pepero Day have a quirky backstory. Before it was commercialized in the 1990s by Lotte (the maker of Pepero), legend has it that Pepero was exchanged among high school girls with a playful wish for a skinny body — as slender as a Pepero stick itself. According to the myth, munching on Pepero snacks on November 11 at exactly 11:11 a.m. (and for those truly committed, at the eleventh second) would supposedly help achieve this slender figure. Though unproven, this story has become part of the holiday’s charm, adding a playful and whimsical touch to modern Pepero Day celebrations.
Types of Pepero
On Pepero Day, you’ll find Pepero sticks everywhere — in special gift sets, fancy packages, and various unique flavors. While the classic Pepero is a chocolate-dipped biscuit stick, over the years, the variety has expanded to include several flavors and styles. You can even find DIY Pepero kits that let you decorate your own sticks for a personalized touch.
Here are some popular types:
- Classic Pepero: The original chocolate-covered biscuit sticks.
- Almond Pepero: Coated in chocolate and almond bits.
- White Chocolate Pepero: Biscuit sticks with white chocolate and sometimes crunchy cookie crumbs.
- Peanut Pepero: Coated in bits of peanut crumbs.
- Strawberry Pepero: A fun twist with strawberry-flavored coating.
- Nude Pepero: Biscuit sticks that are hollow and filled with chocolate or other fillings inside, offering a unique twist on the classic treat with no chocolate coating on the outside.
How to Celebrate Pepero Day
Pepero Day is said to be the most profitable day of the year for convenience stores in South Korea. People celebrate Pepero Day by gifting Pepero to friends, family, classmates, and romantic partners. Students often give Pepero sticks to each other, and couples sometimes go all out, buying gift sets or creating personalized Pepero packages with messages or unique decorations. For those with a creative side, DIY Pepero is a popular way to personalize the day.
Making Your Own Pepero
If you’re feeling creative, you can make your own Pepero sticks. Melt chocolate, dip biscuit sticks, and add toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even coconut flakes, and wrap them with a cute note.
Homemade Pepero adds a thoughtful, personal touch and can be a fun activity to do with friends or a partner. Pepero Day is all about spreading happiness through these tasty treats. Whether you’re giving them to a friend or making a few for yourself, enjoy the day and savor the sweetness!
Pepero Day and Korean Culture
Pepero Day is often compared to Valentine’s Day due to its romantic undertones, but it’s also about friendship and fun. It’s celebrated widely by students and young people in particular, who might exchange Pepero at school or work. Pepero Day is a good example of how playful and creative Korean celebrations can be. It reflects a spirit of sharing, fitting in well with Korea’s other unique relationship-centric days, like Valentine’s Day (February 14), White Day (March 14), and even Black Day (April 14) for single friends.
Happy Pepero Day!
November 11 is 빼빼로 데이, and it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy some delicious Pepero sticks and share them with friends, family, or that special someone. Happy Pepero Day! (빼빼로데이 축하해요!)
