Putting New Year's money in a white envelope? There is a big difference between Korean culture and Chinese culture

As Chinese people, "red envelope" is the key word among relatives every Chinese New Year . Gradually, a unique red envelope culture has been formed . With the development of the Internet, China's red envelope custom has also spread to all parts of the world.

In Chinese culture, red represents joy. During the Spring Festival , the elders will put some money representing auspicious numbers, such as 8 or even numbers , in red envelopes . The elders will give them to the younger generations during the New Year, representing blessings and good luck .

It is reported that Koreans usually give New Year's money directly without envelopes. If they do, they use white envelopes, which is completely different from the color of Chinese red envelopes. In addition, the gift money tends to be in odd numbers. So what causes this difference?

It is understood that ancient Koreans worshipped the sun and pure white , believing that white symbolizes cleanliness and solemnity. When giving gifts at weddings, people also put Korean won in white envelopes and even write Spring Festival couplets on white paper. In addition, the custom of gift money comes from the Yin-Yang and Five Elements. Koreans believe that the odd number is Yang, representing positivity.

During the Spring Festival, Korea will hold a solemn ceremony on the first day of the Lunar New Year . After eating the first New Year's meal on the first day of the Lunar New Year, the New Year's greetings will begin. The younger generation in the family will greet their parents and elders and kowtow to thank them for their upbringing and wish them good health and longevity. The elders will then give the younger generation the wrapped New Year's money.

Red envelopes are meant to ward off evil spirits and bring peace. People believe that children are vulnerable to ghosts, so they use New Year's money to ward off evil spirits and help children spend the New Year safely, wishing them good health, good luck and peace in the new year.

As people's income levels rise, the red envelopes given during the Chinese New Year have become thicker and thicker. The New Year's money in South Korea has also increased a lot. Originally, elementary school students received blue 1,000 won, middle school students received yellow 5,000 won, and high school students received green 10,000 won.

It is reported that the average Korean family now gives their children cash ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 won. Older children will receive more New Year's money, but generally only until they graduate from high school.

The editor reminds you that although red envelopes can add infinite joy, the most important thing during the Spring Festival is to be with your family, which is the greatest happiness.

Korean Culture

Spring Festival

Red envelope