Business Card Etiquette in South Korea [2023]

Whether you are in Korea for a short business trip, to meet your local partners, or to develop your company’s business activities, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the cultural nuances and etiquette that accompany business cards. Indeed, Korean business cards hold significant value and are seen as a symbol of social status. It’s essential to understand the intricacies of business card exchange in Korea to avoid any awkward situations or misunderstandings. In this guide, we’ll discuss the importance of business cards in Korea, the proper protocol for exchanging them, and what information should be included on them.

Information to Include in Business Cards in Korea

Business cards in Korea should at least be bilingual, with the information presented in both Korean and English. The Korean side of the card should be facing up when presenting it to a Korean counterpart. The following information should be included in your business card:

Name and title: Your full name and job title should be clearly stated on the card. If you have a Korean name, it’s advisable to include it in Korean characters.
Company name and logo: Your company name and logo should be prominently displayed on the card.
Contact information: Your phone number, email address, and physical address should be included on the card. In Korea, it’s common to include your office and mobile phone numbers.
Social media: If you have a LinkedIn or Twitter account, it’s acceptable to include your social media on your business card.

The Korean word “명함” is a combination of two words: “명” meaning name or reputation and “함” meaning card.

Exchanging Business Cards in Korea

Exchanging business cards in Korea is not just a simple act of exchanging contact information; it’s a formal process that requires careful attention to etiquette and cultural norms. As a foreigner doing business in Korea, it’s essential to understand the correct protocols for exchanging business cards to show that you respect and understand Korean culture.

Present your card with both hands: When presenting your card to a Korean counterpart, hold the card with both hands and bow slightly.
Receive the card with both hands: When receiving a business card in Korea, use both hands to receive the card and bow slightly.
Read the card carefully: Take a moment to read the card and acknowledge the person’s name and title.
Don’t write on the card: Writing on someone’s business card is considered disrespectful in Korea.
Keep the card visible: After receiving a business card, keep it visible on the table or in a cardholder.

In conclusion, exchanging business cards is an essential part of Korean business culture. To show respect and professionalism, make sure to follow the proper protocols and include all necessary information on your business card, both in Korean and English. By doing so, you’ll create a positive impression and build lasting business relationships.

Belgian Korean Business Forum.