Writing a name in red ink is a rude manner
Writing one's name in red ink is a cultural taboo in China and Korea as the meaning is traditionally associated with the end of life, indicating death to be exact. In Japan, people also avoid writing names in red for the same reason, but it is not an absolute taboo. Some Japanese people today don't care much, and it has been just a rude manner.
The name written in red makes some Japanese people feel down.
I used to not care about the name in red, but my perspective changed after my father passed away, particularly when I saw his mortuary tablet, Ihai 位牌.
Ihai, a mortuary tablet
Japan has a traditional custom of creating an Ihai tablet when a relative dies. On the wooden tablet of Ihai, two of the deceased are placed back and front; the one in front is a name to use in "another world," and the other on the back is the one used in "this world."
Ihai mortuary tablet
When I saw his name in red on the back of Ihai, I recognized his death. And at the same time, I found a kind of fear about the name in red colour as if I saw something ominous. I don't know why, but I felt so. It seems writing a name in red still makes some Japanese uncomfortable.
Avoid your name in red for your business card
Japanese people like to exchange business cards or Meishi, which has been a part of Japan's business culture. When you design a unique, eye-catching business card for yourself or someone, keep this in mind and avoid printing the name in red ink. Otherwise, it will give a negative impression.
