As the Lunar New Year holiday approaches, broadcaster Park Myung-soo has set an appropriate amount for the New Year's money. Park suggested that if one remembers the name, a sum of 50,000 won would be sufficient.
On the 23rd, during KBS Cool FM's "Park Myung-soo's Radio Show," Park shared a listener's story that said, "I am contemplating whether to give my kindergarten-aged nephew 10,000 won, 30,000 won, or 50,000 won for the New Year." He then suggested, "If you see them once a year, give 50,000 won; if you see them twice, give 30,000 won; if you see them three times or more, give 10,000 won."
He also clarified the amount of New Year's money based on the relationship, saying, "If you remember their name at the level of 'What's the name again?' give 50,000 won; if you call them 'You,' give 10,000 won."
New Year's money has roots dating back to literature from the Joseon Dynasty. In the late 18th century, a seasonal customs book titled "Gyeongdo Jabji" features the term "munanbi," which refers to a 'slave who conveys greetings.' This term signified sending a servant or a child from a lower status to convey greetings on behalf of someone in a faraway place who couldn't attend the holiday visit in person.
At that time, the lower-status individuals sent food or fruit with the munanbi, and the upper-status individuals handed over a small amount of money as a token of courtesy and travel expenses, which many consider to be the origin of New Year's money. There is a record from the book "Haedong Jukji," published in 1925, stating that children would receive 'New Year's money' after bowing to adults.
The appropriate amount of New Year's money varies by age and relationship. A survey conducted last February by KB Kookmin Card, which involved over 400 customer panelists known as 'Easy Talkers,' revealed that the appropriate amount for elementary school students is between 30,000 won and 50,000 won, while for middle and high school students, it ranges from 50,000 won to 100,000 won.