Introducing 

Prezi AI.

Your new presentation assistant.

Refine, enhance, and tailor your content, source relevant images, and edit visuals quicker than ever before.

Loading content…
Transcript

Culture Report

South Korea

South Korea as a Business Destination

Introduction

  • 11th largest economy by GDP

  • Global leader in patent activity and information technology

  • Highest broadband penetration in the world

  • 99.9% literacy rate

  • Ranked 4th out of 189 countries in ease of doing business by the World Bank

Cultural Aspects

Cultural Aspects of South Korean Business Practices

Principles and protocols

Deep-rooted principles based in Confucianism

Principles and protocols

Building trust and relationships over time is required for success

Protocol, rank, status, and respect play critical roles

Non-verbal communication

Non-verbal communication and greeting

Do not touch

Give and recieve with both hands

Following a bow, both parties shake hands

  • Left hand placed beneath the right forearm as a demonstration of respect
  • Bows and handshakes occur at every meeting, regardless of formality

Introductions and small talk

  • Business relations require small talk

  • High value on personal relationships

  • Introductions should be executed by a third party

  • Signals mutual respect and trust between parties
  • Small talk is not common in regular life

  • Silence is considered respectful

Business Card Presentation

Business cards

The importance of an individual's business card is great

Receiving the card is a two-handed affair

Offer the card with both hands or one hand with opposite hand under the elbow

Hofstede Dimensions

Power distance & Individualism vs. collectivism

Power distance & Individualism vs. collectivism

Collectivist, group and collective good prioritized.

High, respect for authority and obedience to superiors.

Uncertainty avoidance & Masculinity vs. femininity

Uncertainty avoidance & Masculinity vs. femininity

High, preference for clear rules and predictability.

Highly masculine, traditional gender roles and values emphasized.

Long-term vs. short-term orientation &

Indulgence vs. restraint.

  • Long-term, emphasis on persistence and planning for the future.

Long-term vs. short-term orientation & Indulgence vs. restraint

  • Restrained, preference for moderation and self-control.

Tailoring Presentations

Tailoring presentations

  • Respectful, formal, and avoid excessive self-promotion.

  • Provide clear and concise information.

  • Be prepared for questions and follow-up discussions.

Negotiating in South Korea

Negotiating in South Korea

  • Meetings can last for hours

  • Don't show signs of impatience or irritation

  • Respect hierarchy and punctuality; call ahead if running late.

  • Management style is influenced by the Confucian system of "Inhwa": harmony between different ranks

Gift Giving

Gift Giving in Business

  • Saying goodbye includes a formal presentation of a gift to the most senior level manager

  • Important for establishing and maintaining relationships.

  • Choose something meaningful but not excessive and present it respectfully and humbly.

Summary

  • South Korean culture values non-verbal communication and hierarchy

  • Hofstede dimensions show collectivism, high power distance, and a preference for long-term orientation

  • Presentations should be respectful and informative, while negotiations should prioritize relationship-building and respect

  • Gift giving is an important part of South Korean business culture, but should be done with caution
Learn more about creating dynamic, engaging presentations with Prezi