Wait for the eldest person to pick up their chopsticks before beginning to eat. The Role of Hierarchy in Social Interactions The foundation of nearly every Korean formality is the concept of hierarchy, or chaerye.
Korean Formalities Professional Behavior Guide
When receiving a card, do not shove it into your pocket immediately; take a moment to read the name and title. A younger person will use a specific set of vocabulary and speech levels when addressing someone older, regardless of their professional relationship.
However, there are specific taboos and rules regarding the presentation of these items. Language and Speech Levels The Korean language itself is engineered to reflect social distance and intimacy.
Essential Professional Behavior and Hierarchy in Korean Formalities
From the subtle tilt of the head during a greeting to the precise way an object is handed from one person to another, every action communicates something about the relationship between the individuals involved. Do not pierce food with chopsticks or move plates around the table.
More About Korean formalities
Looking at Korean formalities from another angle can help expand the discussion and give readers a second clear paragraph under the same section.
More perspective on Korean formalities can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.