South Korea · Etiquette
South Korea — Cultural Etiquette
Highest long-term orientation globally. Hierarchical age-respect; restrained public conduct.
Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede)
PDI
60
IDV
18
MAS
39
UAI
85
LTO
100
IND
29
Source: Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com).
What This Means in Practice
Power Distance
· 60/100Moderately hierarchical: respect for age and rank; formal address opens doors.
Individualism
· 18/100Group-oriented: relationships and references matter more than transactional terms; warm small talk before business is normal.
Achievement Orientation
· 39/100Care-oriented: low ego-display, soft consensus-building style; loud or status-flexing behaviour is read as uncool.
Uncertainty Avoidance
· 85/100High uncertainty-avoidance: expect detailed booking processes, written confirmations, and rule-following. Improvising or "playing it by ear" can read as unprofessional.
Indulgence
· 29/100Restrained culture: low-key public conduct expected; flashy displays of pleasure or wealth are read as gauche.
Quick Reference
- Languages: Korean; limited English outside hotels
- Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
- Emergency: 112 police, 119 medical
Related
Cultural-dimension scores from the Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com); etiquette specifics curated from local sources, embassy guidance, and community contributions. Last verified April 2026.