TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Handing out red envelopes (紅包) during the Lunar New Year is a key Taiwanese tradition, with red symbolizing vitality, joy, auspiciousness, and good luck.
In ancient China, the belief in a demon called “Sui” (祟) attacking children on New Year's Eve led parents to place copper coins under their children's pillows. This eventually evolved into the giving of red envelopes in increasing amounts, according to TVBS and UDN Money.
These envelopes given on New Year's Eve, which falls on Jan. 28 this year, symbolize “pressing down the Sui” to ensure a safe and prosperous year. They can also be given from the first day of the Lunar New Year through the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated from Jan. 29 to Feb. 12 this year.
In addition, red envelopes are believed to carry blessings for the recipient, wishing them a smooth and prosperous new year. However, there are customs and taboos for red envelopes to avoid bringing bad luck.
Tips for giving red envelopes
- Choose even numbers or numbers with good meanings, avoid “4”
Even numbers represent doubling good fortune. Money amounts that start with a six or eight are favored for red envelopes, as they are associated with “smooth sailing” and “getting rich.”
The number “4” should be avoided, as it sounds like “death” in Mandarin, which is considered unlucky.
- Use new red envelopes, keep them unsealed
Fresh envelopes are preferred, as old red envelopes are seen as unlucky, carrying “used” luck from others.
Additionally, they should remain unsealed. Sealed envelopes are reserved for weddings or funerals, while an open envelope symbolizes the free flow of wealth.
- Avoid folding bills or coins
Folding the money in a red envelope symbolizes obstructed good fortune. New banknotes can represent a new atmosphere for the New Year.
Filling a red envelope solely with coins is generally seen as disrespectful.
Tips for receiving red envelopes
- Avoid spending the money immediately
It is customary to wait before spending the money received. Some keep it under their pillow as part of the “pressing down the Sui” tradition until after the Lantern Festival.
- Avoid opening the envelope in front of the giver
Upon receiving a red envelope, one should accept it with both hands as a gesture of respect. This can also prevent accidental dropping, symbolically associated with the loss of fortune.
It is considered inappropriate to open the envelope or display its contents publicly.
How much to put in a red envelope
- Red envelopes meant for parents
Many choose amounts between NT$6,000 (US$183) and NT$10,000 or select numbers with auspicious meanings, such as NT$6,600 for “smooth sailing” or NT$8,000 for “prosperity.”
The amount ultimately depends on personal financial capacity. For example, young people entering the workforce might opt for NT$3,600, which also carries positive connotations.
- Red envelopes meant for grandparents
Red envelopes for grandparents or elderly relatives typically range from NT$3,600 to NT$6,600. The amount is traditionally increased each year to symbolize wishes for longevity.
- Red envelopes meant for children
Parents may adjust the amount given to their children based on their age, understanding of money, and daily needs. For children in elementary school or younger, a gift of NT$600 to NT$1,200 is typically suggested.
Middle school students usually receive between NT$1,200 and NT$1,600, while high school students are often given NT$1,600 to NT$2,600. For college students, amounts of NT$2,600 to NT$3,600 are common.
For the children of close friends or relatives, amounts ranging from NT$200 to NT$600 are common, offering a simple gesture of festive cheer. For close relationships, a larger amount may be given, or both parties may opt to give an equal sum.
*The aforementioned folklore is presented for informational purposes only and does not reflect the views of this publication.*
