Korean Job Discussion Forums

[dridgway]

I'd have to say one of the most awkward and hilarious things I've encountered in Korea is shaking someone's hand.
When I'm thinking I try to avoid it but old habits die hard and sometimes I put the hand out when introducing myself to someone. I find that I either get the ol' dead hand, they try to morph it into holding hands, or in the best case an overly enthusiastic and looong handshake. Once I had a handshake last for an entire conversation and multiple times the other person has gone for the handshake 2,3, even 4 times in a conversation or greeting.
I understand that shaking hands isn't as common here...but foreigners seem to be able to figure out bowing easily enough. No? Is it really that difficult?
Any thoughts on this one/funny stories?

[kat2]

I usually try to teach all of my classes how to shake. Strong arm, firm grip. 3 times. Let go. They kind of get it.

[bangnangja]

When I live there I used to get these real creepy handshakes where they scratch the inside of your palm with their index finger.
I used to ask my Korean friends what it meant but never could get a straight answer.

So; what the hell was that all about then?

[seoulsucker]

[billybrobby]

I've shaken hands here a good bit and I never found it so odd. They tend to use two hands, the way they pour drinks. And they don't subscribe to that "strong grip = big strong man" stuff, but I've always found that ridiculous anyways. I dunno, I never had much problem.

On the other hand, at my company I had to take a class on bowing during business etiquette day. It was more complicated than I thought.

[bangnangja]

[pkang0202]

From what I've learned in my business school classes is that you watch your counterpart. If they extend a hand like they want to shake then go ahead. If their arms are just sitting dead by their sides then just bow.

As for me, I just judge the situation. If its a casual meeting then I'll bow. But if it in a business setting where I'm trying to build a relationship of trust, I'll shake hands.

In Korea, I do away with the firm handshake with direct eye contact. I just do a regular handshake, not too weak and not too firm. Also, while I am shaking their hand I'll do a quick nod of my head like a semi-bow.

[kimchi_pizza]