The word on the talisman
재물 (jae-mul) means money and possessions — the practical side of good fortune. It is not about getting rich overnight; in Korean it carries the sense of having enough, and of what you earn staying with you.
Small shops in Korea often keep a good-luck object near the register or the entrance: a painting of a pig (a symbol of plenty), a dried pollack wrapped in thread for a new business, or a written wish posted at the start of the year. The coin shape on this talisman nods to old Korean brass coins, round with a square hole in the middle.
It is a popular wish for people paying off debt, saving for a first home, or opening a small business.
In Korea, shopkeepers hang this kind of wish near the door. Written wishes for good fortune were traditionally posted at the turn of the year, hoping the coming months would bring plenty.
Wishes people write
- “Pay off my loans this year.”
- “Let my shop find its customers.”
- “Save enough for a home.”
- “A good year for my small business.”
How people keep it
Keep it in your wallet, or near the place you work.
Other wishes
- LoveFor the heart you hope to find, or keep.
- ExamsFor the test that matters most.
- CareerFor the job, the raise, the leap.
- HealthFor healing, for you or someone you love.
- ProtectionFor safe roads and calm days.
- FamilyFor a home full of laughter.
- FriendshipFor the people meant to cross your path.
- New BeginningsFor the first step of something new.
- Peace of MindFor a quieter, lighter heart.