Why Do Koreans Avoid Writing Names in Red Ink?
Short answer: many Koreans avoid writing a living person's name in red ink because red has long been linked to death. In traditional record-keeping, red was commonly used for the names of people who had died, so writing someone's name in red can feel like wishing them dead or treating them as already gone. Today most people know it is a superstition, but it is still widely seen as rude or unlucky, so visitors should simply use black or blue ink for names.
Where the red ink belief comes from
No single document explains the origin, and you will read several versions. The most widely repeated explanation is about records of the dead: names of deceased family members were traditionally marked in red in family records and on some memorial items, which separated them from the living. Over time, the colour itself became tied to that meaning.
Other stories say officials once used red for the names of people sentenced to death, or that the custom came from older Chinese practice. These versions are told often but are harder to confirm, so it is safest to say the belief grew from a general link between red and death in names, rather than from one proven event.
Is it still taken seriously?
Most Koreans, especially younger people, will not think you are cursing them. But many still feel uncomfortable seeing their own name in red, and older people may react strongly. In daily life you will notice that people quietly switch pens when writing names on cards, forms or guest lists. Teachers often mark answers in red, but they usually avoid writing a student's name in red.
Think of it like opening an umbrella indoors in some Western countries: few people truly believe it causes harm, yet many would rather not do it.
Situations where visitors should be careful
- Birthday or thank-you cards: write the person's name in black, blue or another colour. Red decorations are fine; the name is what matters.
- Name tags and place cards: at events, avoid red markers for names.
- Signing your own name: many people also avoid signing in red, especially on contracts or official forms. Use black ink.
- Calligraphy or name souvenirs: some stalls write names in Korean as souvenirs. Choosing red for a friend's name may get a polite warning from the seller.
Other colour and luck beliefs you may notice
Red is not "bad" in Korea overall. It is also connected to energy and protection: red bean porridge (patjuk) is traditionally eaten around the winter solstice, partly linked to old ideas of keeping bad spirits away, and red is the cheering colour of the national football team. The negative meaning is specific to names.
Some other common beliefs travellers ask about include avoiding the number 4, which sounds like the word for death in Sino-Korean, so some buildings label the fourth floor "F" instead of "4". White and black are traditional funeral colours, so bright gifts wrapped in plain white are less common for happy occasions. None of these are strict rules, but knowing them helps you read small details around you.
What to do if you made a mistake
If you already wrote someone's name in red, do not panic. A simple "sorry, I didn't know" is enough, and most people will laugh it off, especially when they see you are a visitor. If it is a card you are about to give, it is easy to rewrite the name in another colour. Showing that you know the custom usually earns appreciation.
For more everyday etiquette, see why Koreans give and receive with both hands and how deep visitors should bow.
Quick tips
- Carry a black or blue pen for cards, forms and guest books.
- Never write a living person's name in red, even as a joke.
- Sign your own name in black ink, especially on official papers.
- Red decorations, envelopes and clothing are fine; only names are sensitive.
- If unsure, ask: "Is this colour okay?" People are happy to explain.
FAQ
Will Koreans be offended if I write their name in red?
Some may be uncomfortable, especially older people, but most will understand if you are a visitor and didn't know. It is best simply to avoid it.
Can I write other things in red ink?
Yes. Notes, corrections, dates and decorations in red are normal. The belief applies to people's names.
Is it okay to write my own name in red?
Many Koreans avoid that too, so using black or blue for your signature is the safest choice.
Is the red ink superstition only Korean?
Similar beliefs are found in some other East Asian cultures, but the custom is especially well known in Korea.
Does pink or orange count as red?
Usually not, but a dark pink or red-orange may look close to red, so choose a clearly different colour for names.