When wedding season approaches in Korea, one of the most common dilemmas is determining the right amount of congratulatory money (축의금, chugigeum). Give too little and it may seem disrespectful; give too much and it becomes burdensome. Meanwhile, business day calculations are essential for deadlines, deliveries, and financial transactions. This guide covers both topics with practical advice.
📑 Table of Contents
1. Appropriate Amounts by Relationship
Korean congratulatory money traditionally uses odd amounts (30K, 50K, 100K won) as even amounts are reserved for funerals. For close friends in their 20s-30s, 50,000-100,000 won is standard. Colleagues typically give 30,000-50,000 won, while siblings may give 200,000-500,000 won or more. Amounts tend to increase with age and seniority.
💐 Congratulatory Money Calculator Find the appropriate amount for your relationship →2. Etiquette and Tips
Key etiquette points: use odd-numbered amounts, prepare fresh bills from the bank, write your name and amount on the envelope, and match what the recipient gave at your wedding (reciprocity principle). Using printed congratulatory envelopes is preferred over plain white ones.
3. Regional and Generational Differences
In the Seoul metro area, 50,000 won is the most common amount for friends. Provincial cities tend to be slightly lower (10,000-20,000 won less). Rural areas often feature community-based customs with 30,000-50,000 won and emphasis on shared meals. Among the MZ generation, mobile transfers (KakaoPay) are increasingly common, and some small weddings now decline monetary gifts altogether.