1. Greetings

Polite greetings can leave everlasting good impressions on anyone you meet in any cultures but Koreans are known for their strict business greetings protocols.

South Koreans bow with their legs together and hands on the sides (or clasped in front of their stomach.) It is best to bow at 30-45 degree angle.

Make sure you bow with phrases like “an-neyong ha-se yo(hello),” and “ban-gab-seub-ni-da (Nice to meet you)”

A handshake is often offered after a bow, respond to it gently with both hands. And don’t shake hands too enthusiastically as if to rip the other person’s arm off.

2. Business Cards

Exchanging business cards is an essential part of a first business meeting.

Not sure how it’s done? Don’t worry, we will walk you through it!

The very first step is; have your card ready! Don’t keep your counterpart waiting for you to find your card. Remember to hand/receive a card with both hands.

Upon receiving a card, don’t put it down in your pockets or business card case. Be sure to take a look at it, and, most importantly, of all treat it with respect.

If sitting, place the card (NOT face down) on the table until the meeting is over. If given multiple cards, the best strategy you can take is to line them horizontally or vertically so you can refer to them during the meeting.

3. Gift-Giving

Gift-giving is part of doing business in South Korea. And gifts are exchanged at the beginning of a meeting.

Inexpensive and good quality items are preferred.
Gifts such as liquor, fruit, cakes are staples. Gifts from your countries would be appreciated and impressive!!

Don’t give an expensive gift as Koreans will feel obligated to return a gift of the same value.

Also, have it wrapped in bright colors.

When given a gift, don’t open it right away: Be patient! It shouldn’t be opened in the presence of the giver.

Bonus tip: if you are handing out multiple gifts, give a senior member a more valuable gift than a junior member. It is all about respect for seniors.

4. Building relationships

Because Korean business manners place high emphasis on personal relationships and trust, first establishing a personal connection is a vital step toward closing a deal.

Networking is important, and it usually takes several dining sessions to start business negations.

So always say YES to invitations from your business counterparts.

Want to know about Korean table manners? Click here to find out more!

5. General etiquette

South Korean culture values harmonious environment and feeling of balance.
Particularly in the business world, you must show deep respect and avoid causing loss of face.(This practice is known as “maintaining kibun.” )

So try to avoid the following things:

Instead, be modest, be indirect when demanding answers, and try to come up with an alternative way to express your ideas or concerns.