Korean Business Etiquette

Talking about doing business in South Korea, we can not address the subject  about features of business etiquette there.
As I mentioned in previous posts manners and etiquette are very important to Koreans, so they follow it very strictly. In this post I will tell you more about how to behave on a Korean business meeting and what to expect on a workplace.



First and very important aspect is that South Koreans prefer to do business with people with whom they have a personal connection, so they try to establish and develop strong long-lasting relations. Talking about relationships, they can be developed through informal social gatherings that often involve a considerable amount of drinking and eating. Moreover, Koreans believe that individuals who have established mutual trust and respect will work hard to make each other successful.

Another no less important point is the fact that is very crucial to Koreans be introduced by a third-party. In other words you can not come and introduce yourself to a partner of another firm. While, sensitive matters and topics may often be raised indirectly through the one that that first made the introductions. And it is important to remember under no circumstances insult or to criticize in front of others, especially it is important if you will have Korean employees, it will be better to talk with them tete-a-tete.

Also, South Koreans have different perception of contracts and business documents, for example they treat legal documents as memorandums of understanding. Besides, they view contracts as loosely structured consensus statements that broadly define agreement and leave room for flexibility and future adjustments as needed.

South Koreans are extremely direct communicators, it can be seen when hey are not averse to asking questions if they do not understand what has been said or need additional clarification. One more thing is that in his is a culture where "less is more" when communicating, so you also need to remember to respond to questions directly and concisely.

Since there is a tendency to say "yes" to questions so that you do not lose face, the way you phrase a question is crucial. It is better to ask, "When can we expect shipment?" than "Can we expect shipment in 3 weeks?", since this question requires a direct response.

So, here are some tips for business meetings with Koreans:

• Do not remove your jacket unless the most senior South Korean does so.
• Appointments are required and should be made 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
• You should arrive on time for meetings as this demonstrates respect for the person you are meeting.
• The most senior South Korean generally enters the room first.
• Have all written materials available in both English and Korean.
• Meetings are used to understand a client's needs and challenges. They lay the foundation for building the relationship.