A Korean Culture Overview

Korean Protocol

Never be without calling cards as it is common to exchange business cards.  It is advisable to have your card handy when you expect to meet people.  Give and receive gifts/business cards with both hands, or at least the right hand (never use the left alone).

A face-to-face meeting is more effective than contact by telephone or a letter when you want to seriously discuss some business.

It is a good idea to be introduced to government officials or businessmen through your friend or acquaintance.  When you are entertained by a person, reciprocate in a similar way.  By doing so you can maintain a positive relationship with him.

Never write a person’s name in red ink.  When writing a person’s name, Korean do not use red unless that person is dead.  Koreans, however, use red colour when they use a tojang (chop or name seal).

Gifts are discreetly set a side to be examined later (i.e. They are not opened in front of guests).

Koreans write their surname followed by their first name.

Koreans normally bow when they greet each other.  When they bow they are also welcome the opportunity to shake hands with others: foreigners, friends or strangers.

Koreans avoid making direct eye-to-eye contact when in conversation.  This is a gesture of politeness and respect.  They believe that direct eye contact is impolite and discourteous during conversation.

When receiving gifts, foods or goods, Koreans use both hands together as another sign of politeness.

When you enter someone’s home, take off your shoes.

On some occasions, what you say may not be completely comprehended, but a Korean may pretend to understand it.  If you detect any sign of uneasiness from someone, politely repeat what has just been said; some Koreans would not feel comfortable asking you to repeat it.

Koreans are fairly culture-generous people.  Use any good Western manners when you do not know how to behave or react.

A suit is more appropriate than casual attire at business meetings and social gatherings.

Try to avoid jumping right into business matters.  Be patient and use a gradual approach.  Further, do not expect an immediate “yes” or “no”.
If Korean businessmen take you to a bar or restaurant, consider it part of doing business.  In that relaxed and comfortable environment, it is easier to deal with matters related to business.

For smokers – It is common practice to offer cigarettes to one another.

Do not blow your nose at the dinner table (a very discreet wipe is allowed!).

Shaking hands has become a custom with Westerners (including women), and a slight bow of the head is appreciated upon meeting and leaving very senior people (eg. The President).

Although many Koreans speak excellent English, those with more limited English appreciate slower more deliberate speech.  Don’t assume everything you say in English is completely understood.

You should not feel obliged to leave a gratuity at a restaurant because all costs are already included in your bill.

Tipping is not encouraged.

Always have a formal introduction.

Don’t push your position too hard.

Always praise, never back your counterpart into a corner.

Entertain and be entertained.

Build human relationships.

Try to get to know your Korean counterpart.

Don’t expect western logic to do the trick.

Be aware and know what’s going on.