CK Cheong says he never gives wedding envelopes, calls it ‘culture shock’

2026-03-02 - 05:44

BANGKOK — The long-debated question of how much to put in a wedding envelope resurfaced this week after CK Cheong, CEO of Fastwork and a well-known online personality, said he has never given one. In a post on 27 February 2026 via his Facebook page, CK Cheong, CPA, Cheong was asked how much he puts in an envelope when attending weddings. His reply was blunt: “I’ve never given one.” He explained that at first he did not give envelopes because he was unaware of the custom, having grown up in the United States where the practice is uncommon. Even after learning about the tradition in Thailand, he said he still did not “get it”. “If you’re not ready to treat me to fish maw soup, then I just won’t go. I’d rather spend my time working,” he wrote. Cheong added that if anyone expects to invite him because they assume he is wealthy and would give a large envelope, they need not extend the invitation. “You can note it down — my envelope is 0 baht,” he said, insisting that it was not about being stingy but a matter of cultural difference. “You invited me. I didn’t ask to come. Why do I have to pay?” he wrote. He also clarified that his comments reflected his personal view and were not intended to encourage others to follow suit. “Whether you give or not give is not wrong. I’m not the social police. I’m just sharing my opinion. No drama,” he added. The remarks sparked heated debate online. Some commenters said giving envelopes is a long-standing cultural practice in many countries and seen as a gesture of goodwill or support for the couple, rather than an obligation. Others countered that if not giving an envelope in Thailand is considered “culture shock”, then tipping in the United States — where 20% or more is often expected — could be equally shocking for Thais. At the same time, a number of users voiced support for Cheong, saying they also struggle to relate to the envelope tradition and agreed with his perspective