Formality
Koreans place a high value on formality. This is reflected in the different levels of speech used to address people of a different age or rank. Individuals of a higher rank or older age are treated with more reverence than individuals of a lower rank or younger age.
Meeting Koreans
When first meeting a Korean, he or she may ask you questions that you may find to be very personal such as your age, family background, etc. This is not considered to be an invasion of privacy or an act of disrespect. The purpose of these questions is to establish your age and rank in order to determine how to address you with the correct level of formality. It is also done to just get to know you better. Koreans want to know your family background because they believe it reveals a lot about a person’s character. Knowing the family background of an individual can give them clues about how the individual was raised and what kind of values he or she holds. If you feel the questions are too personal, it is acceptable to kindly decline to answer.
Greetings
• Ordinary greetings
Greet close friends or companions by just saying hello and waving one’s hand while asking if they are doing well.
• Nodding
A slight nod to elders in general situations. But, it is not proper for formal situations.
• Shaking Hands
Shake hans when greeting your colleagues, friends or business partners whom you haven’t seen for a while. In Korea, you should not extend your hand to shake hands before a senior does.
• Bowing
A greeting with the greatest respect to a senior. Koreans make a low bow usually on traditional holidays and ceremonial occasions.
• Honorific Expressions
Usually, honorific expressions are used to show respect for older people or bosses. Koreans use honorific
• Drinking
Koreans enjoy having some drinks with family or friends. However, minors under 19 cannot purchase alcoholic beverages, and those who sell alcohol to minors will be penalized. The rules on drunk driving are very strict. Koreans tend not to drink in the presence of elders. However, when one is offered drinks by his elder, he holds the glass with two hands while the elder is pouring the drink, and drinks after turning his head aside a little as a way of expressing respect for the elder.
expressions also for a person whom they meet for the first time.
• Tipping
Tipping is not required in Korea. However, in most hotels facilities, tip (service charge) is usually included along with your bill.
• Smoking
There are a growing number of regulations against smoking with more awareness of its harmful effects. Traditionally, Korea has more strict rules on smoking than drinking. It is considered rude to smoke in the presence of elders. Cigarette sales to minors are prohibited. Smoking is not allowed in almost all public places and buildings such as public institutions, theaters, libraries, and public transportation. There are areas designated for smoking in public places.
