Conducting Business

Business Card

• When having a meeting, the Korean is essential to bring business card along with them.
•  The business cards are presented to the counterpart after having a small bows/handshake & it is vital for initiating introduction.
•  Korean’s prefer to know more about the person they dealing with so it is important to emphasize your title so that the right rank, authority & status are established. 
• When giving/receiving the card, the card should be presented/accepted by using both hands. 
• After receiving the card, it is closely studied with respect & considerate. All business card received are placed on table during meeting. 
• If there are more than 1 card, they should be placed vertical line on the table so all the cards are visible. After meeting all card are placed in pocket.

Gifts

• Gift-giving are part of the business culture which is also a common practice within the Korean business setting & not considered bribery. 
• Normally gifts are given at the first business meeting & often used to build relationship which also considered as an ‘ icebreaker’. 
• Always allow host to present his gift first & accept the gift with both hands to avoid loss of face. 
• Gifts which have similar value should be exchanged & gifts of greater value should be given to the senior person respectively. 

Meetings

• Appointments are required between the most suitable time which is normally 10am-12pm/2pm-4pm  & should be made a few weeks in advance. 
• Punctuality is essential as it is a sign of respect.
•  Some Korean executive would arrive a few minutes late due to their extremely busy & pressured schedule.
•  If counterparts realize they would be late, it is best to call ahead to say so.