Confuzianism
This philosophical world view lies in the centuries-old tradition of the country and describes a way of thinking in which respect for old age, the principle of seniority and a strong hierarchy are pronounced. What does that mean in the business world? At business meetings, one always speaks with the same rank in the hierarchy chain, the principle of "Older First" instead of "Ladies First" applies for greetings and the national contacts are above the international ones.
Business Dining
Koreans like to eat in elevated areas, where the shoes have to be taken off in any case (and it goes without saying that the socks have no holes). The guests place themselves on cushions around the table; it is considered unfriendly to stretch out their feet to the other person. The eldest of the group starts eating. Typical, and certainly nothing new, are the rice dishes of Asian cuisine, which are eaten with chopsticks. They can cause a European some difficulties, so why not do a few practice sessions at home beforehand? It is a huge NO-GO to leave the chopstick in a bowl of rice - this is only common at funeral ceremonies as a memorial of sacrifice. As far as drinking habits are concerned, it should be noted in South Korea that people do not replenish themselves. It belongs here to the general form of politeness that one refills oneself mutually and stretches out the glass with both hands to its opposite as a sign of gratitude. When toasting, your own glass should not exceed that of the oldest in the group. It's also common not to look each other in the eye when you're toasting.
