As the Chinese New Year approaches, you may notice small red envelopes being exchanged between people or hanging above shop entrances in Chinese communities. These are called Lai See (also known as red packets), and they carry deep cultural meaning connected to luck, respect, and prosperity.
Traditionally, Lai See are given from elders to juniors and contain a new banknote rather than coins. A new note symbolises care and intention from the giver, while an old or worn note was historically seen as careless or forgetful. The amount given varies depending on the relationship, but there are important customs to follow. Totals should be even numbers, as odd numbers are associated with funerals. Amounts containing the number four are also avoided, since the Cantonese word for four sounds similar to the word for death.
During Chinese New Year celebrations, red envelopes are often hung above shop doors so that the Lion Dance performers can “collect” them. Symbolically, the lion devours the envelope and brings good fortune and success to the business for the coming year.
Lai See also have a place within traditional martial arts culture, including Wing Chun. In earlier times, training fees were sometimes given in red envelopes as honour payments. This allowed students to contribute according to their means, without embarrassment or comparison. It helped ensure that martial arts training remained accessible to those who truly needed it, not only those with financial advantage.
In many modern schools, class fees are standardised for simplicity and fairness. However, Lai See are still sometimes used for private tuition with a Sifu. Presenting the fee in a red envelope maintains tradition, shows respect, and removes awkwardness around payment timing.
More than just envelopes, Lai See represent goodwill, gratitude, and the passing of good fortune — values that sit comfortably alongside traditional martial arts practice.