Business and Social Etiquette 101: A Look at the Korean and Japanese Culture

Many people do business in Korea and Japan. Know their taboos before you go to avoid mistakes that may cost you that nice deal. Here are some business and social etiquette you should keep in mind when visiting or doing business in Korea and Japan. It is a brief introduction to the Korean and Japanese culture, with the most important tips on etiquette.

Remember that a lot of people find the Korean and Japanese culture, although were taken from the ancient Chinese, more strict and traditional than today's Chinese culture. Women in Korea and Japan have less freedom than those in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Read the basics of the Korean and Japanese etiquette here. But the best advice is to observe your setting around you, and behave like your companions.

Korean Etiquette:

As a sign of respect, Koreans bow when they greet each other.

Giving, handling and receiving gifts and any other object should involve two hands.

When you shake hands with someone older, you should support your right arm with your left hand.

Koreans take off their shoes and wear indoor slippers (which will be provided for you) when they enter the house. You should too.

Sometimes, traditional restaurants require you to take off your shoes as well. Some restaurants settings involve sitting down on a mat and crossing your legs. Spoons are typically used only for rice, and chopsticks are for noodles and side dishes. Lunchtime is usually for business and dinner is for personal reasons. Don't be surprised that when out for lunch/dinner with a group of people, someone would order the same entrée for everyone at the table. This indicates a sense of togetherness.

Karaoke is a popular pastime in large Korean cities.

Many Korean men smoke.

Japanese Etiquette:

At most times, the Japanese would bow when they greet, others simply shake hands with foreigners, as they try to accommodate to your culture. The Japanese would not like hugs and slaps on the back.

Women bow with their hands in the front, on their laps while men bow with arms to their sides.

Gift-giving in Japan is very common. This includes meals and gifts. In formal settings, one should never open gifts in front of the giver; however, in casual settings one could ask for permission. You are expected to give something in return as well. As a symbol of gesture, a thank you letter would work as well.

When you have a pot of tea, or a bottle of alcohol, you are expected to pour for your for the people at the table. Someone would do the same for you.

The Japanese are punctual people.

They also like things clean. Blowing your nose at the dinner table is rude. Consider stepping outside or turn to your side when doing so.

When paying the bill at a restaurant, it is normal to pay at the register. When done, remember that it is considered rude to count your change. A quick look at your change will do.

Again, you are expected to take off your shoes when entering a Japanese household. They will give you a pair of slippers, but remember don't wear the slippers on the tatami (straw mat). You may expect to find traditional, "no shoes allowed" restaurants as well. Shoes, in the Japanese culture, are considered dirty. So don't point with shoes, or let your shoes touch any otherwise clean objects. Tattoos are associated with Japanese gangs; try to cover up any tattoos.