In addition to the well-known Valentine’s Day on February 14, several Asian countries also celebrate White Valentine (March 14) and Black Valentine (April 14).
So, what is the difference between White Valentine and Black Valentine? What do these two days mean, and who are they for? Let’s explore in detail below.
White Valentine, also known as White Day, originated in Japan in 1978. It is a day when people who received gifts on Valentine’s Day (February 14) return the favor by giving gifts back.
A day to reciprocate love and affection after Valentine’s Day.
A chance to show sincerity and seriousness in a relationship.
An opportunity for couples to confirm their feelings officially.
In Japan and South Korea, it is common for women to give gifts to men on February 14. Then on March 14, men return gifts as a response to the affection they received.
Popular gifts include:
White chocolate
Candy
Cookies
Jewelry and accessories
Flowers or meaningful keepsakes
The color white symbolizes purity, sincerity, and long-lasting love.
Black Valentine, celebrated on April 14, is especially popular in South Korea. This day is dedicated to single people.
If you didn’t receive gifts on February 14 and didn’t have anyone reciprocate your feelings on March 14, Black Valentine is your day to embrace single life in a positive way.
Celebrating singlehood.
Not feeling sad about being single.
Encouraging self-love and independence.
Contrary to common misconceptions, Black Valentine is not a day for complaining about loneliness. Instead, it is a fun occasion for singles to gather and enjoy their freedom together.
In South Korea, single people often:
Wear black clothing.
Eat black bean noodles (Jajangmyeon).
Hang out with other single friends.
The color black symbolizes solidarity among singles, but in a lighthearted and positive spirit.
Here’s a comparison table to clearly highlight the differences between White Valentine and Black Valentine:
| Criteria | White Valentine | Black Valentine |
|---|---|---|
| Date | March 14 | April 14 |
| Origin | Japan | South Korea |
| Target Audience | People who received gifts on Feb 14 | Single individuals |
| Meaning | Reciprocating love | Celebrating singlehood |
| Symbolic Color | White | Black |
| Common Activities | Giving gifts, dating | Eating black bean noodles, socializing with friends |
In short:
White Valentine is about returning love and affection.
Black Valentine is about embracing and celebrating single life.
The celebration depends on your relationship status:
If you received a gift on February 14 → White Valentine is the perfect time to return the gesture.
If you are single → Black Valentine is an opportunity to enjoy independence and practice self-love.
No matter your relationship status, both days carry positive messages about love, appreciation, and self-worth.
In Vietnam:
White Valentine (March 14) is relatively well-known, especially among young couples.
Black Valentine (April 14) is less common but gaining attention due to the influence of Korean culture.
In recent years, many young people have started treating Black Valentine as a fun occasion for single meet-ups and gatherings.
Now you clearly understand the difference between White Valentine and Black Valentine:
White Valentine (March 14) is a day to reciprocate love after Valentine’s Day.
Black Valentine (April 14) is a day for singles to celebrate their independence.
Whether you are in love or happily single, each day carries its own special meaning and encourages us to appreciate both relationships and ourselves.