Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Xanadu123]

I have read a decent amount about all the eating etiquette and Confucian values about how to wait for the eldest to begin eating and presenting things with both hands.

I am very curious however as to how the Koreans react when foreigners do not follow these rules either through ignorance or because they do not like them?

[Rusty Shackleford]

Even Koreans don't follow the rules that much. If they want to make a big deal about something, they will find something. I just act oblivious to all that crap. Though, I do that stuff anyway just to be polite. I don't lose any sleep if I make some minor faux pas, though.

[furtakk]

to add on to that, my korean friends say that amongst friends you can just ignore most of the rules. i was pouring them drinks with the hand under the elbow thing and they kind of laughed it off and said it was unnecessary. may get you bonus points with the boss/korean co-workers though.

[AD35]

Basically if it's people you don't know well or people who are seniors above you, then do the polite thing. They may laugh but they will respect you because you know about the Korean culture and stuff and gives you bonus points like the poster said above me.

Other than that, if you with friends then no one really cares. It's only for those older people...