When first arriving to South Korea, it may look like absolutely any other containing all of the latest comforts, services and technologies you can possibly find in a big city. Korea constantly develops both technologically and economically, rapidly turning into a local business hotspot, however, it is quite relevant to be aware that being modern doesn’t mean Western by all means! Of course, your Korean partners are not expecting you to have deep knowledge of their business etiquette, but they will highly appreciate your efforts to follow cultural rules and traditions.
Over last decades Koreans have mostly shifted to Western lifestyle, local traditions and etiquette are still commonly applied in many areas. For example, Koreans still show respect for family ties and social hierarchy. Also, you should be ready to experience a mix of business negotiations and meetings with social activities and interactions, as the locals usually prefer forming personal relationships first and only then – doing business. Often heavy drinking of the traditional local alcoholic beverages is a common part of forming a personal and business ties.
Below you will find more practical advice on local culture and peculiarities of doing business in South Korea.
Business meetings with your Korean partners
You need to be sure to arrive exactly on time, maybe a few minutes earlier. Generally, try being formal, but friendly, in the same time. However, try not to make jokes or laugh, since such behaviour may be recognized as a lack of respect to your host.
Keep in mind that it is extremely essential to show care and respect for authority of your partners. According to general rules, the most senior member of your group should be the first one to enter the room and greet the most senior member of the Korean team.
Handshakes during business meetings
Normally you are expected to do a small bow, followed by a soft handshake. Junior team members shall bow to the senior partners first. It is considered polite to wait for more senior team member to offer a handshake first: do not be the first one to offer a handshake to a more senior partner.
Business cards
Make sure you have quite many when you first meet your partners, as you are expected to provide one for each member of the team. Always give and take business cards with both hands and treat them with respect: do not fold them, put in your pocket or wallet – put them in a special card holder box, otherwise you will insult your partner. Also, your business cards must be translated to Korean on one of the sides.
Presenting gifts as a part of Korean business culture
Gift exchanging culture is quite popular. So, if you are travelling to South Korea for a formal business meeting – make sure to bring some small local gift from your country for the most senior team members. If you are on a work trip or an informal meeting – presents are usually not expected.
