One of the perks of living in countries like Korea is that you get to celebrate two new years. In case you tripped out of the gate with the Gregorian calendar’s kick off, fear not: there’s always Seollal, the Lunar New Year celebrated in many East Asian cultures. 

One reminder that another Korean holiday like Seollal  is just around the corner is that our office gifts us lavish presents. Last Chuseok we received fancy Jeju oranges. Last Seollal we received high-end cuts of beef. This year for Seollal we had the choice between a branded backpack or a box of golden apples. 

Never one to overly sport company-branding, I opted for the box of apples. To my delight but also horror, the box contained thirteen individually wrapped pristine apples – just enough to make a single gal blush at such a copious amount of beautiful fruit that will inevitably go bad on my counter before I have a chance to finish them.

This being single in Korea dilemma often creeps up when shopping at grocery stores or finding a restaurant to enjoy solo. Leaning more collectivist, Korea is the kind of place that privileges couples and groups. When you’re perusing through the fruit and veggies aisles, your only option for fresh produce is buying an industrial sized amount of apples, oranges, tomatoes, and more. When eating out, many restaurants require a minimum of two guests, and if you order from the set menu, you have to be with another person. 

As if that’s bad enough, because coupledom in Korea can be a status marker, couples love to revel in their togetherness with matching outfits, shoes and accessories included. 

Did I mention there’s a cafe chain named A Twosome Place? 

Having just survived another heart wrenching breakup earlier in
January, I recognize I’m more sensitive to these subtle hints. Living across a mall that’s ground zero for couples’ date night also doesn’t help the heart move on. 

And yet, with my second try at a new year on the horizon, why not embrace what Korean astrologists depict for the year of the tiger: bravery, boldness, and confidence. 

To this Iist I’ll also add generosity. I may not have a partner. I may not have my own kids. But I sure do have plenty of girlfriends and guyfriends and students that can join me in enjoying some delicious Seollel golden apples.  

Song for post: What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve? By Ella Fitzgerald