Religion of South Korea

Korean culture includes a variety of religious elements that have shaped the way people thought and behavior. In the early stages of history in Korea, religious and political functions have been combined, but they were later to be different.

Historically, Korea lived under the influence of Buddhism, Taoism, or Confucianism, Shamanism, and in modern times, Christianity has made solid progress in the country, brings out another important factor that can change people's spiritual landscape. Rapid industrialization taking place in the next few decades than centuries in the West, has brought great anxiety and isolation while disturbing the peace of mind of Korea, to promote peace efforts in religious activities.

The Constitution in Korea is guaranteed freedom of religion. According to a 2005 social statistics survey, 53.1% of Koreans follow a specific religious faith. Buddhists account for some 43% of the religious population, followed by Catholics at 20.6% and Protestants at 34.5%.

Education in South Korea

Through the history of the Pisa Assessments, Korean students often rank highly on international comparative assessments when compared to students of most Western education systems. The South Korean education system is rather distinctly strict and highly organized which emphasizes more upon memorization, passive learning and Confucius ideals of  learning. South Korea has a single-track 6-3-3-4 system which includes 6 years of elementary schools, 3 years of middle school, 3 years of high school and 4 years of university education in order to ensure that every citizen can receive primary, secondary and higher education without discrimination. For expat children, there are 3 different schooling options which are local Korean schools, home schooling, international and foreign schools offered in South Korea. The students start studying from a very young age for their University Entrance Exam,which is a very huge deal in determining their future.They have very little for creativity or personal growth as they spend 12 to 16 hours a day on their studies.

Language of South Korea

The Korean language is the South Korea’s official language and it is spoken by almost 80 million people worldwide. Korean was written using Hanja, the Chinese characters until 1443, King Sejong the Great commissioned a national writing system called Hangul, which is now known as one of the most scientific writing systems in the world. The modern Korean alphabet is made up of 40 characters: 14 consonants, 5 double consonants, 10 vowels and 11 double vowels. Levels of formality in Hangul are used to show one’s respect towards his or her audience. Therefore, when “banmal”, the lowest form is used to address older people or people with greater social standing than one’s self, offence can be taken. Modern Korean has many different dialects which are similar enough that people do not have any difficulty in understanding each other. Hangul is also the only alphabet with its own national holiday which is observed on the 9th of October in South Korea. Speaking and writing the same language has been an important factor in the country's strong national identity for the Koreans.

Business Culture of South Korea

South Korea is categorized in high context culture.

Corporate Culture

Appointments are required and should arrive on time. This shows a sign of disrespect if you let them wait you for up to half an hour. Traditional Korean greeting, bow when departing, although common handshake among men. Korean women usually nod and will not shake hands with men. Exchange business cards after the initial introductions in ritualized manner. Korean may perceived insult for omitting to present cards .Business cards is better printed in English and Korean. All written materials are available in both English and Korean. At the end of meeting, a low deep bow indicates a successful meeting. If it was a quick short parting bow it could mean dissatisfaction.


The Korean way of exchanging business cards.

Names and Titles

It is impolite to address a Korean with his or her given name. Address a Korean with Mr, Mrs or Miss together with their family name.

Dress Code

Business attire is conservative accordingly to show respect for them. Women should dress conservatively in preparing to sit on the floor and wear subdued colours. For men , a suit and tie is mandatory in meetings and avoid to wear jewellery other than watch or ring.

Gift

Gift are the part of business culture and not considered bribery. In Korea gift giving is very common and they offer and receive nicely wrapped gift with both hands and never opened in the presence of the giver. Wrapping gift with bright colours like yellow and red or green stripes are highly preferred by Koreans since it’s a traditional Korean wrapping designs. When invited to someone’s home a small give should be brought along for the hostess such as candy and cookies.

Examples of gifts should not be given:
- Knives or scissors
- Green headwear
- Gifts with red writing
- Liquor to woman

Helpful Hints

Words like "fellow" or "that guy” are considered demeaning and should never be used. In food, language and culture, Koreans are dissimilar from other Asians. Deny a compliment and don’t say “thank you”. It shows a lack of humility and is impolite. Koreans may give an incorrect answer or an answer they think you would like to hear to make you feel good or to save face but they never admit to not knowing an answer. Don’t talk about Koreans or their custom or culture even if you are saying good things and also never talk about politics.

The most senior generally enters the room first. Do not remove your jacket unless the most senior does so. To be touched by someone who is not a close friends or relatives is consider a personal violation. Direct eye is seen as impolite and challenge. Do not cross and stretch your legs out straight. Don’t be overly impatient. Avoid to use facial expressions and large hand gestures. Laughing and talking loudly is considered impolite.

Members' Profile

Name: Lee Pei En

Student ID: 13030465
Description of task: Religion of South Korea




Name: Yee Sook Ying
Student ID: 13036991
Description of task: Education in South Korea




Name: Chong Li Lian
Student ID: 12024279
Description of task: Language of South Korea





Name: Soh Wee Chain
Student ID: 13043005
Description of task: Business Culture in South Korea




Name: Loke Wai Yuen
Student ID: 13046941
Description of task: Business Culture in South Korea