DO’S AND DON’TS IN KOREA

Cultural differences between the Netherlands and Korea can hamper your business meetings. On this website we cannot explain all the differences in detail, but here is some general advice:

1. Don’t directly introduce yourself to people that you haven’t met before. It’s better to be introduced by somebody that knows both yourself and the person you would like to meet.
2. Don’t forget to bring your business cards. Exchange cards with both hands or with your right hand; never with your left hand. After the exchange, you should place the cards on the table in front of you as you proceed with the meeting, using them for further reference.
3. When speaking English, make sure your Korean counterpart understands what you are saying. Emphasize and repeat your key points. Try to use short sentences and simple vocabulary. It might be a good idea to exchange notes after the meeting.
4. When negotiating, don’t push too hard. Be prepared to be patient, gentle but firm, and as dignified as possible at a negotiating table. Sensitive issues may be left for future discussion.
5. Develop a good relationship with your Korean counterpart. Relationships are more important than legal documents. Koreans do not like detailed contracts and prefer flexible contracts that can be changed if necessary. Therefore, it is very important to have a good relationship with your Korean counterpart in addition to the business contract.
6. Respect your partner. Koreans are extremely sensitive people. Make sure they don’t lose face; don’t put them in a difficult position.
7. Entertain and be entertained. Entertainment should always be accepted, and returned in due time. Drinking competitions are common. You may be expected to get drunk but you have the right to politely refuse. Legitimate reasons for not drinking include personal health conditions and religious beliefs. It is common practice to exchange small gifts.
8. Know your counterpart. Try to personalize all business relationships. An informal agreement with a trusted party can be considered far more secure than any written document. Try to find out as much as possible about your counterparts: family, hobbies, birthday, etc.
9. Don’t use Western logic. Feelings and face are often extremely important. Read about Confucianism to get a fundamental understanding of the Korean perspective.
10. Stay informed. Korean society is changing rapidly and so are the Koreans. Korea is a global leader in the use of broadband internet, and events and trends often change at ‘Internet speed’.