Yes, using red ink is generally considered bad luck or inappropriate in Japan.
This stems from cultural beliefs and associations linking red ink to death and mourning rituals. Specifically:
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Grave Markers: Historically, names on grave markers were sometimes written in red ink. Therefore, writing a living person's name in red is seen as wishing them dead or foreshadowing their demise.
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Severing Ties: Some believe writing a name in red signifies cutting ties with that person.
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Deathbed Superstition: There's also a superstition that writing a person's name in red ink means that you won't be with them at their deathbed.
Therefore, it's advisable to avoid using red ink when writing names, addressing letters, or signing documents in Japan to avoid causing offense or misunderstandings. While some younger generations might be less strict about this tradition, it's still considered good etiquette to adhere to it.
