1. What is Pepero Day

Pepero Day is an unofficial Korean holiday on November 11. The date 11 11 looks like four slim biscuit sticks, so friends, couples, classmates, and coworkers exchange boxes as a lighthearted sign of affection and appreciation.

2. The origin story and how it spread

The story goes that a playful gift between students in the 1990s sparked a nationwide idea. Brands then leaned into the 11 11 symmetry, and convenience stores built sky high displays every early November. By the 2000s, Pepero Day became as visible as Valentines Day in Korea, but with a more casual, share with everyone mood.

3. 2025 trends and limited editions

Expect collectible sleeves featuring pop art and character collabs, mini gift bundles with flowers or coffee coupons, and flavor sets beyond classic chocolate. Almond crunch, cookies and cream, strawberry yogurt, matcha, and dark cacao are easy wins. Office friendly multi packs and eco sleeves made of recycled paper are rising this year.

4. How people celebrate it today

Morning drops at the office, after class exchanges on campus steps, and cafe meetups in the evening. Groups build playful towers, couples add handwritten notes, and student clubs run small fundraisers with themed boxes. Convenience stores in busy districts like Myeongdong, Gangnam, and Hongdae usually sell out of popular flavors by afternoon.

5. Gift guide and simple etiquette

For classmates and coworkers. Go with variety multi packs. Keep messages short and friendly.

For your partner. Pair a favorite flavor with a tiny keepsake, like a photo strip or a small bouquet.

For kids. Choose lighter coatings, nut free options, and include a cute sticker.

Etiquette. You do not owe a gift back on the spot. A thank you message the same day is enough. If you cannot accept sweets, say thank you and share with the group later.

6. DIY Pepero in 15 minutes

What you need. Plain biscuit sticks, melting chocolate, optional toppings like crushed almonds, coconut flakes, or sprinkles.

How to. Melt chocolate in a heat safe bowl. Dip sticks two thirds of the way, tap off excess, roll in toppings, and set on parchment. Chill for 10 minutes. Tie three or four sticks with a small ribbon and add a handwritten note.