Буклет на тему «Essential Tips for Business Travellers in East Asia»

Korean business culture may be fast-paced, but trust and relationships come first.

• Do not rush introductions, meals or the first stages of negotiation.

• A strong or emotional “No” may be only a negotiating tactic, not a final refusal.

• Respect age and seniority. Older representatives may receive more respect than younger people with higher job titles.

• Be careful with seating: the most senior person usually takes the best seat, farthest from the door.

Traveller’s tip: Build the relationship first, then move to business.

• “Hai” does not always mean “Yes.” It can simply mean “I understand.”

• Use open questions to confirm agreement, for example: “What are the next steps?”

• Exchange business cards with both hands and take a moment to read them.

• Do not immediately put a card into your pocket or write on it.

• Important decisions may be prepared through informal discussions before the official meeting.

• Silence is normal. A pause often means your partner is thinking carefully.

Traveller’s tip: Be patient, observe carefully and do not force quick answers.

• Business cards should be treated with respect and attention.

• Chinese negotiations can take time and involve several meetings.

• During banquets and toasts, hierarchy matters. Senior people usually go first. -

• Chinese partners may avoid a direct “No” to preserve harmony. Expressions like “we will study it,” or “it may be difficult” can actually mean refusal.

Traveller’s tip: Read indirect signals and never rush the negotiation.

The idea of “face” is extremely important: personal, family and group reputation should be protected.

• Avoid criticizing, correcting or embarrassing someone in public.

• If there is a problem, discuss it privately.

• Contracts may be seen as flexible and relationship-based, not completely fixed.

• A Vietnamese partner may politely refuse tea, a gift or an offer once or twice before accepting.

• Names usually follow the order: family name + middle name + given name.

• People are often addressed by their given name, sometimes with a respectful title.

Traveller’s tip: Protect your partner’s dignity and stay flexible.

ONE JOURNEY — FOUR GOLDEN RULES

• Seoul: Respect hierarchy and build trust first.

• Tokyo: Be patient and pay attention to indirect communication.

• Beijing: Read between the lines and never rush negotiations.

• Hanoi: Protect “face” and keep relationships flexible.

Observe first, speak carefully, respect hierarchy — and remember that patience is often your strongest negotiating tool.