Interviewee
For the interview, I chose a man who was born and has lived in South Korea for a long time. His name is Lee Seon-U, and now he is 28 years old. Before moving to the United States to study at the University of Virginia, he was born and lived in South Korea for 22 years. Therefore, Lee knows various nuances in this country’s culture, which can help navigate among people. In addition, Lee shared aspects of business language and rules of conduct in companies and organizations in South Korea. Before immigrating to the United States, Lee spent two years working in his country as a marketer and getting to know some of the nuances of the labor market. The knowledge gained will be essential for communicating with South Korea’s business partners and maintaining ethical and cultural standards.
Professional Meeting and Greetings
In the interview, I focused on the business and culture of South Korea. Regarding business, I asked Lee the following questions: Could you please describe how people greet one another in South Korea? How would a visitor be welcomed to someone’s workplace in your country? How are organizations typically structured in South Korea? During an official meeting, Koreans greet one another and, at the same time, lightly bow their heads (Hoare, 2021). It is a sign of respect for the interlocutor. Koreans, like Americans, shake hands when they meet. However, it is essential to emphasize that when meeting, at best, people should be represented by a third party (Hoare, 2021). A vital factor in an organization is respect for others, and status is determined by age, position, and connections.
Restrictions
An essential aspect of understanding the culture of South Korea is restrictions. So I asked Lee the following questions: How is public space used in South Korea? What type of activities should one never do in public? As a result, the knowledge gained indicated that Koreans are actively greening public spaces (Hoare, 2021). It makes them friendly to people and encourages acquaintance between them. Public spaces are created so that people feel comfortable and can communicate with each other. However, there are critical cultural constraints that must be respected. For example, you cannot leave your Chopsticks Stuck in rice while eating or speak loudly in public (Hoare, 2021). In addition, if you want to make a good impression, you should use two hands to receive or give things.
Traditions and Holidays
In South Korea, there are many holidays and traditions that a guest of the country must observe. For example, South Korea’s New Year celebration is called the Seongsan Sunrise Festival (Hoare, 2021). On this day, people wish happiness, health, and prosperity for all and celebrate the new year with the sunrise. One of the most important events of the year is the day when Koreans remember their ancestors, the Hansik festival (Hoare, 2021). On this day, the country performs sacrificial rites at Jongmyo, the Royal Shrine, and Nungwon.
Reference
Hoare, J. (2021). Korea – culture smart!: The essential guide to customs & Culture. Kuperard.
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