South Korea
I. Cross Cultural Differences
A. Language: One of the most difficult cross cultural differences to overcome is the language barrier that exist between South Korea and the United States. South Korea officially speak and write the Korean language this helps to unite the 65 million people living on the Korean peninsula, and it will be important for any company seeking to do business in Korea to use representatives who are fluent in writing, speaking, and using the subtle nuances of body languages expected in the Korean language in order for Korean investors to feel that our company truly cares about the Korean way of life. Following this paragraph there are a few of the faux pas that would be seen innocently in America, but would offend a South Korean business person.
1. Written language: It will be important for any company moving to South Korea to be sensitive when it comes to translating written documents while red ink is often used in editing, or to grab attention. However, the names of individuals should never be written in red ink in South Korea because red ink is used to list the names of the dead and is considered bad luck.
2. Body Language: South Koreans use a unique blend of eastern and western culture where they first bow, and then shake hands. It is important to note that the person of lower status initiates the bow, but the person of higher status will initiate the handshake. Any representatives sent to business meetings with South Korean investors should be briefed in advance of the social hierarchy of any attending members. When leaving a gathering it is considered rude if each person is not bowed to individually. Remember South Koreans consider it a personal violation to be touched by someone who is not a personal friend or family, so never use pats or slaps on the back.
3. Spoken Language: In western culture it is customary to