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.