Lunar New Year Red Envelopes: A Simple Guide
Who gives red envelopes, how much to put in, and how to hand them over, with a few notes on the different names and customs.
Lunar New Year, which falls on February 6 in 2027, is the biggest holiday of the year for many Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean families. Giving money in a red envelope is one of its best-known customs. It is called hongbao in Mandarin, lai see in Cantonese, and lì xì in Vietnamese. Korean families give money after the traditional New Year bow, called sebae. The details vary a lot, so here are the points most people agree on.
Who gives to whom
Usually elders and married adults give envelopes to children and to unmarried younger people. Some families also give to parents and grandparents as a sign of respect, and some workplaces give envelopes to staff. If you are not sure who in your family gives, ask.
How much to put in
There is no required amount. Many families use even numbers, which are thought lucky, and avoid anything with a four, because the word sounds like the word for death in Chinese. Eight is considered especially lucky. What matters is a sum that is comfortable for you and fair among the children.
New bills and a fresh envelope
Crisp, new bills look respectful and are traditional. Some bank branches will exchange old bills for new ones in the weeks before the holiday; ask yours. Use an envelope with no tears or writing on it, and one that has not been used before.
How to hand it over
Give and receive with both hands and say a short good wish. Children often say thank you and a New Year greeting. In many families the envelope is not opened in front of the giver.
Our Top Picks
1. Red Envelopes
A pack of plain red envelopes is all you need. Choose a plain design or a zodiac one for the year, and buy more than you think you need.
2. Zodiac-Themed Envelope Sets
Sets decorated with the year's animal are a nice touch for children and make the envelope a small keepsake.
3. A Small Tray or Box
A shallow tray or lidded box keeps the envelopes tidy for handing out and looks good on a table.
4. Pen for a Short Message
A gold or black pen lets you add a few words of good wishes to the envelope, which many families appreciate.
A note on names
Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean traditions have their own words, foods, and customs, and they are not interchangeable. If you are writing a card or a message for a family, use the name they use. Customs differ between families and regions, so treat this as a starting point and follow your own family's way.
Wishery Verdict
The envelope and the good wishes matter more than the amount. Use clean, new bills, avoid the number four, hand it over with both hands, and follow your own family's way of doing it.