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Should Company XYZ Go to South Korea?

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Situation

This report was created to give the employees of XYZ Corporation information to form a decision about going to South Korea. This report will give information on these three topics.
• The Hofstede's Value dimensions and how we can gain insight to our host country
• The current ethics of business
• The basics in family life

Background
The Republic of Korea or as commonly called South Korea was a vassal state to Japan until 1945. After World War II South Korea became a democratic state. North Korea became a communist republic. After the armistice, North and South Korea were split along the 38th parallel. Since that time South Korea has become one of the fastest growing economies. It has gone from being a third world Gross …show more content…

It is not unusual to carry a travel toothbrush with you to brush after every meal. Going to the spa is like going to the mall, a group activity with a snack bar. The South Koreans are particular about their skin care regime. There are new and innovative products every month. Even men use BB cream (blemish balm).

The Gift

The gift is an essential part of South Korean business. As with business cards give and receive gifts with both hands. Do not open the gift in sight of the giver. There should be a polite resistance to giving or receiving a gift. This is part of the culture so be polite. When you give gifts start with things with the company logo on them, but make sure not to give anything produced in Korea or Japan. (Terri Morrison).

The Dinner and Drinks

After work is over be prepared to go to dinner. As part of etiquette do not take the last bite of a dish and leave some on your plate. Cleaning your plate is in bad taste. Meals are usually served family style. (Frances Cha) Also be prepared to drink, most South Korean businesses have hoesik (dinner with coworkers usually involving multiple rounds at different venues) at least once a month. When your boss offers you a drink it means that they want to listen to you. Never have an empty glass. Wait until the senior person has a drink before you drink yours. Always hold bottles or shot glassed with both hands unless you have been ranked as the senior person. Do not refuse a drink. It is considered rude.

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