Throughout the western world, November 11 is solemn day to commemorate the sacrifices of members of the armed forces and of civilians in times of war. Koreans, however, have a different take on November 11.
In Korea, November 11 is a day to exchange stick biscuits with your friends and loved ones. Something akin to a Valentine’s Day, students exchange the stick biscuits – called Pepero (meaning ‘skinny’) - with their friends and classmates while older Koreans buy extravagant packages of biscuits to impress their lovers.
When I tried to explain what November 11 was in Canada to the teachers at my school, they looked mildly confused and couldn’t understand why I found the difference in meaning of the day so absurd. No teacher could tell me the origin of Pepero Day but Kelly came up with a good theory.
After some solemn remembering yesterday morning, I made my way to the nearest convenience store and celebrated Pepero Day in true Korean style.
When in Rome…
When I tried to explain what November 11 was in Canada to the teachers at my school, they looked mildly confused and couldn’t understand why I found the difference in meaning of the day so absurd. No teacher could tell me the origin of Pepero Day but Kelly came up with a good theory.
After some solemn remembering yesterday morning, I made my way to the nearest convenience store and celebrated Pepero Day in true Korean style.
When in Rome…
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