Korean Business Communication

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James Pugh

Business Communications 254.C

June 22, 2006

Korean Business Communication

The world of international business is becoming smaller and smaller daily due to

"Amazing new transportation and information technologies which are major

contributors to the development of our global interconnectivity" (Guffey 95). This

advancement has allowed more and more foreign markets to open up to do trade.

The Republic of Korea is one such market. In order to successfully compete in this

very attractive Asian market, one must be aware of the Korean business culture.

The Koreans have certain customs and ways of communication when doing

business that all outsiders need to have studied well in advance because they differ

greatly from western business conduct.

One of the fundamental principles to keep in mind in dealing with people in the

Korean business world is that they will not do business with anyone that they do not

trust. "For Koreans, relationships are important; cold calls don't work, introductions

are crucial!" (South Korea). Once an introduction is done, one should be able to

greet the Korean in his own language. "It demonstrates that you respect the country

and the culture enough to make an effort", (Chu 245). Since Koreans usually

negotiate in groups; one must keep in mind that their senior officials are always

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introduced first and one must do the same for one's own negotiating team.

The Koreans consider the use of business cards very valuable as it helps them to

determine what position and status the person who is attempting to do business with

them have within their own company. Koreans like to negotiate with people of equal

company status. "Business entertainment and socializing is considered very

important and is usually limited to restaurants and bars" (Axtell 95), this also

provides an opportunity to establish trust. During these times, Korean

businesspersons may ask what appear to be very personal questions to Westerners.

When asked for private information such as one's age or marital status, one should

keep in mind that this too is just a part of the Korean businessperson's attempt at

getting to know a potential partner better and therefore trust them.

Korean businesspersons are known to be very polite when negotiating deals and

Westerners should remember to do the same. When communicating with a group of