SOCIAL CUSTOMS & ETIQUETTE TIPS FOR SOUTH KOREA

The Concept of Kibun/Feeling Kibun is a word with no literal English translation; the closest terms are pride, face, mood, feelings, or state of mind. If you hurt someone's kibun you hurt their pride, cause them to lose dignity, and lose face. Korean interpersonal relationships operate on the principle of harmony. It is important to maintain a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere at all times, even if it means telling a "white lie". It is important to know how to judge the state of someone else's kibun, how to avoid hurting it, and how to keep your own kibun at the same time. In business, a manager's kibun is damaged if his subordinates do not show proper respect. A subordinate's kibun is damaged if his manager criticizes him in public. Nunchi is the ability to determine another person's kibun by using the eye. Since this is a culture where social harmony is crucial, being able to judge another person's state of mind is critical to maintain the person's kibun. Nunchi is accomplished by watching body language and listening to the tone of voice as well as what is said.

Naming Conventions In South Korea names operate in the reverse of Western cultures; Family name (surname), a second family name shared by all of that generation, and finally their given name. It is considered very impolite to address a Korean with his or her given name. They should be addressed using their professional titles, or Mr, Mrs Etc, until permission is given otherwise. Meeting & Greeting Bowing is the traditional way to greet in South Korea Handshakes often accompany the bow among men Your left hand should support your right forearm when shaking hands Korean women do not always shake hands and may slightly nod instead of a full bow Always bow to individuals when departing

Communication style Communication can be complicated in South Korea due to an inherent dislike of saying ‘no’ as it is considered poor etiquette Discussions can be prolonged due to the avoidance of declining or refusing If disquiet is verbally or visibly displayed it is a sure sign that something is amiss Good posture and positive body language is most beneficial in meetings; patience and politeness must be maintained throughout Do not use excessive or overt body language Use two hands, or support your right arm with your left, when passing on business cards, gifts, or when receiving an item Respect, trust and satisfaction are displayed through a deeper bow

Personal Space It is insulting for Koreans to be touched by someone with whom they are unfamiliar; don’t pat them on the back or hug them Prolonged, direct eye contact can be inferred as a challenge and is seen as impolite, especially when dealing with others of a higher social standing Keep your body within its own personal space; avoid extended or crossed legs and limit arm movements when explaining something so as to evade others’ personal space If calling someone over to you do not point with your index finger, instead use your hand palm down in a claw movement In cities (especially Seoul) pushing, shoving and touching are regular occurrences – don’t be offended by the lack of apologies Friends, of both sexes, will often walk arm in arm together, especially teenagers and the younger generations

Gift Giving Etiquette Koreans are generous people and enjoy giving gifts Accept the gift with both hands – but never open the gift immediately, wait until the giver is absent Return the favour and offer something of a similar value. Koreans enjoy Western gifts and items so be prepared before leaving home If giving gifts be sure to wrap and present them in an attractive way. Avoid using dark wrapping paper, especially red, instead choose bright yellow/green If invited to a Korean home always take the hostess a gift; chocolates, sweets, cakes or flowers but preferably not alcohol Gifts are often given at the first business meeting and the host should present his first. To reciprocate, give good quality alcohol such as scotch, or desk accessories Do not give overly expensive gifts as Koreans feel indebted to give as they receive Avoid gifts such as knives, scissors, sets of four, and red writing (these are seen as ‘cutting ties’ and signifying death respectively)

Dining & Food Always wait to be seated by your host. If given the seat of honour (looking at the front door) it is polite to demonstrate a slight objection Elders are served first and begin the dining process Food and dining are important parts of Korean culture and are used to build relationships. Be sociable and work at shaping good associations for pleasure and business as they are interlinked Don’t pour your own drink, although it is considered good manners to pour another’s. Women often pour for men but not for other women. Rather than refuse more drink (remember, Koreans don’t like outright refusal) simply leave your glass part full, as opposed to empty Do not tip if you see a ‘no tipping’ sign There are often prolonged periods of silence during Korean meals – socialising can happen once everyone has feasted Don’t forget to pass and receive food with two hands or with just your right if it is supported by your left When it comes to settling the bill, the invitee may offer to pay but the host will generally pay for everyone. If you are invited to continue after dinner with drinks or a party, don’t refuse this invitation. On occasion you may be asked to sing a solo after dinner. Try not to refuse this request, instead sing with enthusiasm and spirit Do not point with your chopsticks, or leave them sticking out of your bowl The national drink of Korea is ‘Soju’, a clear vodka-like drink that is generally 18-25% alcohol

Visiting a home Always remove your shoes before entering a Korean home (in recent years there has been an increase in Western culture and this may not always be the case - follow the lead of your host if unsure) It is possible to arrive up to thirty minutes late without causing offence but punctuality is highly respected Remember, never pour your own drink. The host will do this in your presence Being invited into a Korean’s home is considered an honour (especially if it is for a meal) so it is essential to treat it as such. Be polite, respectful and observe their customs Bring a gift to reciprocate your host’s kindness Once the party is over you will usually be escorted to your car or the gate by the host. This is a sign of respect