The lucky numbers and colors in East Asia are more than personal preferences—they are deeply rooted in history, language, and tradition. In countries like China, Korea, and Japan, certain numbers and colors are thought to bring prosperity, while others may be avoided due to associations with death or misfortune.
Whether it’s choosing a wedding date, a phone number, or even a clothing color for a special event, these symbols influence many aspects of life.
Let’s explore the most powerful and meaningful lucky numbers and colors in East Asia—and the beliefs that shaped them.
1. Lucky Numbers and Colors in China
Numbers
- 8 (八 – bā): The most powerful lucky number in China. It sounds like “prosper” (发 – fā), making it the top choice for business, weddings, and phone numbers.
- 6 (六 – liù): Represents smooth progress and success.
- 9 (九 – jiǔ): Symbolizes longevity due to its pronunciation being similar to “long-lasting” (久).
Unlucky number:
- 4 (四 – sì): Avoided because it sounds like “death” (死 – sǐ). Apartments and elevators often skip this floor.
Colors
- Red: The ultimate color of good luck, joy, and celebration. Common in weddings, festivals (like Lunar New Year), and money envelopes (hongbao).
- Gold/Yellow: Associated with royalty, wealth, and prosperity.
- White: Traditionally linked to mourning and funerals.
2. Lucky Numbers and Colors in Korea
Numbers
- 3 (삼 – sam): Symbolizes harmony and balance. Seen as stable and auspicious in traditional Korean philosophy.
- 7 (칠 – chil): Considered lucky, particularly influenced by Western beliefs in recent decades.
- 9 (구 – gu): Associated with completion and eternity.
Unlucky number:
- 4 (사 – sa): Avoided in buildings and hospitals for its phonetic similarity to “death” (사 – 사망).
Colors
- Five-Element Colors (Obangsaek – 오방색):
- Blue (동) – East / spring / wood
- Red (남) – South / summer / fire
- Yellow (중) – Center / earth
- White (서) – West / autumn / metal
- Black (북) – North / winter / water
Each color represents directional and cosmic balance. Among these, red and yellow are most commonly used in lucky events such as weddings, festivals, and first birthdays (돌잔치).
3. Lucky Numbers and Colors in Japan
Numbers
- 7 (七 – nana): A widely accepted lucky number. Seen in celebrations like Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3), a festival for children’s health.
- 8 (八 – hachi): Represents growth and prosperity due to its broadening shape.
- 3 (三 – san): Associated with harmony and life.
Unlucky numbers:
- 4 (四 – shi): Sounds like “death” (死). Avoided in gifts, hospital rooms, and seat numbers.
- 9 (九 – ku): Sounds like “suffering” (苦).
Colors
- White: Worn by brides and symbolizing purity, but also used in funerals. Highly context-dependent.
- Red: Symbol of energy, youth, and life. Used in celebrations like New Year’s and baby items.
- Gold: Signifies luxury and is used in New Year decorations.
4. How Lucky Numbers and Colors Influence Modern Life
The influence of lucky numbers and colors in East Asia is still strong in daily decisions:
- Phone numbers: In China, numbers like 8888 are sold for thousands of dollars.
- License plates: People pay more for plates that contain 6, 8, or 9.
- Wedding dates: Chosen carefully with lucky numbers and colors in mind.
- Clothing: During holidays or job interviews, red or yellow is preferred over dark or “mourning” colors.
- Real estate: Apartments on the 8th floor sell better, while units with “4” are discounted.
Even global companies like Apple and Samsung adapt product naming and packaging to suit these local beliefs when launching in East Asia.
Conclusion: Why Lucky Numbers and Colors in East Asia Still Matter
The lucky numbers and colors in East Asia reveal how language, religion, and culture intertwine to influence everyday choices. These beliefs offer more than superstition—they provide comfort, structure, and a way to attract positive energy in a rapidly changing world.
So whether you’re launching a product, attending a wedding, or decorating for Lunar New Year, don’t underestimate the power of the number 8—or the strength of a red envelope.
