Korean Culture Essay

1146 Words3 Pages

Social Customs and Values

Language: Korean’s are a very large ethnic family, that speak one language and have a very strong cultural identity. They share many distinct physical characteristics which differentiate them from many other asian ethnicities, such as the Chinese or Japanese. As stated by Kwinessential, a professional translating company:

“The Korean language is spoken by more than 65 million people living on the peninsula and its outlying islands as well as 5.5 million Koreans living in other parts of the world. The fact that all Koreans speak and write the same language has been a crucial factor in their strong national identity. Modern Korea has several different dialects including the standard one used in Seoul and central areas, but they are similar enough that speakers/listeners do not have trouble understanding each other.”

Family Values: Family is the utmost important part of Korean life, the welfare of the family becomes before individual needs. The actions of one family member will reflect on the rest of the family, therefore each member of the family is tied to the other. Many Korean families keep a registry of male ancestors which can allow them to trace their specific family’s history for over 500 years.

Communication and Relationships: Preferably, South Koreans like to do business with people they have a personal connection with, making it crucial to be introduced by a third-party. Often relationships are developed through informal social gatherings, involving a heavy amount of eating and drinking. It may take a lot of time and patience but after individuals have established a sense of mutual trust and respect, they will work hard to ensure a successful business relationship. South Koreans view le...

... middle of paper ...

...you treat someone’s business card, shows how you will treat the person who gave it to you. If you are in Korea, you should have one side Printed in Korean. When presenting your card, it is best to use two hands, with the Korean side facing up so that it is recognized by the recipient. Examine each card given to you carefully and place it in a case or portfolio, you should never write on someone else’s business card in front of them.

"South Korea - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette." The Translation Agency For A Complete Professional Translation Service. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Mar. 2014.

Bosrock, M. M., & Window on the World (2014). South Korea - Cultural Etiquette - e Diplomat. Retrieved April 3, 2014, from http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_kr.htm

Open Document