In Chinese superstition, the number 8 is considered especially lucky because its pronunciation resembles the word for wealth or prosperity.
Eight is pronounced bā in Mandarin, while the related sound fā appears in fācái, meaning to become wealthy or prosper. This sound association has made 8 especially desirable in telephone numbers, vehicle registration plates, addresses, and business branding.
The number’s reputation became highly visible during the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The opening ceremony began at 8:08:08 p.m. on 8 August 2008, deliberately emphasizing the number’s auspicious status. Numbers containing repeated 8s can also command high prices in auctions.
The belief is not a mathematical rule and does not apply identically to every Chinese-speaking community. Other numbers can also be favorable, especially 6, which is associated with smooth progress, but 8 is the most famous prosperity number.