Korean business culture is warm but values courtesy and hierarchy. You are not expected to know every custom — a little effort is always appreciated.
Greetings and business cards
- A handshake with a slight bow is common. Wait for the senior person to offer a hand.
- Offer and receive business cards with both hands (or the right hand supported by the left).
- Take a moment to read the card and place it on the table in front of you during the meeting, not straight into your pocket.
Titles and names
Koreans often address colleagues by job title rather than first name. Family names come first: in “Kim Minsoo”, Kim is the family name.
Dining and drinks
Business dinners are an important way to build trust.
- Let the most senior person start eating and drinking first.
- Do not pour your own drink; pour for others, and someone will pour for you.
- Hold your glass with two hands when an elder pours for you.
- You can politely decline alcohol — just keep some water or a soft drink in your glass.
Gifts
A small gift from your home country is a thoughtful gesture. It is usually opened later, not in front of the giver.