In China, chopsticks are a symbol of inseparableness since chopsticks are always used in pairs. Hence, chopsticks are a favorite gift for the new couples. Chinese words for chopsticks is “kuaizi”. “kuai” means “quick” and “Zi” also take on the meaning of “son” or “child” in Chinese. Chopsticks represent the best wishes to newlyweds “having a child/son quickly” in China. In addition, to ensure the couple’s inseparableness, the two sticks must have the same length and smooth surface, showing the hope of the couple’s perfect “match” and have a “smooth” life forever.

There is a poem to describe a love story by using chopsticks:

Our lengths are the same,

Just as the sameness of our hearts; Bitter or sweet,

We spend our life together. Having tasted it all,

We always live side by side.

One knows the other;

Our intimacy is so seamless,

No space even for a single word.   

(Wang, 2015)

It is unusual to give chopsticks as a gift in Korean culture since chopsticks don’t have the same meaning as Chinese. Chopsticks show a symbol of the environment protection hygiene in Korea. Korean chopsticks can be washed and reused since they are made out of metal.