What Japanese term means Valentine's 'obligation chocolate'?

The Japanese term for Valentine’s “obligation chocolate” is giri choco. It describes chocolate given out of politeness, appreciation, or workplace obligation rather than romantic love.

In Japan’s Valentine’s custom, women traditionally give chocolate to men on February 14. Giri choco may go to male colleagues, bosses, friends, and acquaintances. The word combines giri, meaning a social duty or obligation, with choco, a shortened form of chocolate. It contrasts with honmei choco, which is intended for someone the giver loves romantically and is often more expensive or homemade.

Japan’s chocolate-centered Valentine’s tradition was built through confectionery marketing in the mid-20th century. Morozoff promoted Valentine’s Day in the 1930s, while later campaigns—including chocolate sales in the 1950s—helped establish the custom. The practice expanded into offices, where social expectations made small gifts common.

The custom has also changed. White Day, on March 14, developed as a reciprocal gift-giving occasion for men. Since the late 2010s, giri choco has faced criticism for pressuring employees, and many Japanese consumers have shifted toward gifts for partners, friends, or themselves.