Global companies who want to do business with Korean business people will benefit by knowing Korean business culture and the concept of Korean HAN – A powerful, deep feeling of sadness, frustration, anger, and resentment that sometimes threatens to explode. This emotion comes from 5,000 years of restriction that has built a force within Koreans and has passed from generation to generation.
This emotion of Korean HAN comes out as PASSION when there is a topic that Koreans feel strongly about, and shows up frequently in Korean business negotiations. It also fuels Koreans’ driving determination to succeed. They may not show it with their low key body language but they have a burning desire to succeed.
Koreans have made AMBITION a national trait. Their obsessive determination to succeed allowed South Korea to become a social and economic powerhouse with one generation.
When meeting Koreans, show understanding and respect for their “passion” to stand up for important issues and their determine to succeed.
Koreans are proud of their culture and that includes their
1) flag
2) language
3) history
4) art
5) Korean Pop Culture
Korean HAN is a national cultural trait. Korean HAN denotes a feeling of oppression and isolation in the face of overwhelming odds. Yet, this feeling has brought on pride, determination, and passion to succeed in the world today for the Koreans. There is a feeling of hope. They are moving ahead.
The degree to which you understand Korean HAN and can relate to your business partner’s culture can determine the quality and outcome of your discussions. Culture has a direct impact on how we do business. Because of Korean’s strong will to succeed and win, at call costs, it’s important to “come along side them” and not try to fight them “head on.” Respect and support their goals and everyone wins.
Remember...You Are a Super Hero!
Jinsoo
jinsoo@jinsooterry.com
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