5 Chinese and Korean superstitions, from colour red to pigs, and which ones they share
Both consider the number four, and clipping nails at night, as unlucky, but Koreans might find it odd that the Chinese avoid manhole covers
Given their geographical proximity, China and Korea share many cultural similarities – especially when it comes to superstitions.
Here are three examples, as well as some big differences in beliefs between the two countries.
1. The number 4
The number four is considered unlucky in both cultures. The reason behind this is the same too: the word for “four” sounds similar to the word for “death” in both languages.
2. Nail clipping
Clipping nails at night is considered a big no-no, as it is believed doing so would invite spirits to your abode.
There is a practical side to this old wives’ tale. Before nail clippers – and electricity – were prevalent in the region, people used knives, scissors and even sickles to trim their nails, a highly dangerous activity when done in the dark. Accidents saw the practice highly discouraged.
There is also one well-known traditional Korean folk tale involving a boy who carelessly discards his fingernail clippings. A mouse eats the clippings and takes the form of the boy, stealing his identity. The story has long scared Korean children into disposing of their nail clippings carefully.
3. Lucky pigs
Both cultures consider pigs lucky. In Korea, dreaming of a pig – or even better, multiple pigs! – is believed to be a sign that the person is about to receive monetary blessing and abundance.
