Black Day in Korea: A Celebration of Singlehood

Scheduled exactly one month after White Day and two months after Valentine’s Day, is an unofficial Korean holiday called Black Day (블랙데이). This distinctive celebration is dedicated to individuals navigating the realm of singlehood, particularly those who found themselves bereft of gifts or affection on the preceding romantic holidays. That’s how the story goes.

Mostly what you need to know is that eating jjajangmyeong (짜장면) is super popular on this day and if you’re single in Korea and weren’t pleased by the onslaught of romantic holidays that the past two months brought, now is your time to shine.

Want to learn more about Black Day in Korea? Here’s what you should know:

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What is Black Day in Korea?

Black Day is an unofficial holiday in South Korea observed on April 14th every year. It is a unique celebration dedicated to individuals who find themselves single and did not receive any gifts or affection on Valentine’s Day or White Day which occur on February 14th and March 14th just before.

Incheon Chinatown, Incheon, Korea; jjajangmyeon (짜장면)

Why is it called Black Day?

The name “Black Day” originates from the idea that it’s a day of mourning for those not involved in romantic relationships. The color black symbolizes the sadness and sorrow experienced by single individuals who did not receive gifts on the preceding romantic holidays.

Originally a day of sorrow, where single individuals could gather to lament their singleness, Black Day has evolved into more of a celebration of singlehood, with a decreased societal pressure to be in a relationship. I wouldn’t say people are necessarily sad on Black Day these days. It’s more or less an excuse to eat.

How is Black Day Celebrated?

On Black Day, singles in Korea come together to embrace their single status. Many people gather with friends or family, dressing in black outfits isn’t required but adds to the mystique. The day often involves consuming jjajangmyeon (짜장면), a popular Korean dish of black bean noodles, which perfectly aligns with the theme of the day.

Businesses capitalize on the day by organizing events and promotions targeting single individuals such as speed dating and eating contests. Basically, you should expect your local Chinese restaurant to be pretty busy with orders.

What is jjajangmyeon (짜장면)?

Jjajangmyeon (짜장면), is said to be a Chinese-Korean noodle dish made with thick wheat noodles and a black bean paste-based sauce, said to be because it’s not exactly Chinese but an adaptation that is now Chinese-Korean. The sauce typically includes ingredients such as soy sauce, pork, onions, zucchini, and optional additions like seafood and cabbage. This is one of our daughter’s favorite dishes too. You’ll find that it’s a good dish for kids to eat in Korea because it’s not spicy at all.

Often regarded as comfort food, jjajjangmyeon is affordable and widely available in Korea, making it a popular choice, especially on Black Day. While you should absolutely buy it from a local restaurant and have it that way whenever possible in my opinion, there are jjajang ramen like Jin Jjajang and Chapagetti and there is also jjajang tteokbokki options now too because some people just really like the sauce on anything.

Don’t wait until Black Day to enjoy jjajangmyeon though, you can eat this dish any day of the week. And, if you really want to dive into all that is this delicious noodle dish, visit the only official Chinatown in Korea, Incheon Chinatown, where you can find plenty of delectable jjajangmyeong restaurants and even a jjajangmyeon museum!

Black Day Vs. Valentine’s Day

While Valentine’s Day and White Day are dedicated to couples and involve gift-giving, Black Day focuses solely on celebrating being single. It doesn’t involve gift exchanges, but businesses often take advantage of the day by offering discounts, hosting events like matchmaking, and organizing jjajangmyeon eating contests for single people.

Black Day in Other Countries

While Black Day is primarily celebrated in South Korea, similar concepts exist in other countries. In the United States, it’s observed as Singles Awareness Day on February 15, emphasizing self-love and independence. China has its own version of Singles’ Day on November 11, known for massive shopping events and discounts. (Though, you know November 11 is another unofficial holiday in Korea called Pepero Day.)

Whether seen as a day of reflection or celebration, Black Day in Korea has become a unique cultural phenomenon. From wearing black attire to indulging in jjajangmyeon, it offers a diverse range of activities for single individuals to embrace their status and enjoy the day with friends.

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