'Saving Face' in South Korea

Expert Info

Posted by

on 26 Apr 2011

Been reading up on workplace etiquette in South Korea and it seems like the concept of 'saving face' dominates most of what happens both at home and at work in South Korea. Any tips on acclimating to the idea of 'saving face', and what to do and not do upon arrival?

Anonymous (not verified) on 26 Apr 2011 - 08:11

'Saving face' in South Korea has everything to do with the idea of equilibrium. Social harmony takes priority in South Korea and it's not out of the ordinary for South Koreans to lie to newly arrived westerns to avoid either party feeling embarrassed. To a western this is weird and dishonest, but to a South Korea it ascribes to the idea of 'saving face' and so it works. The best thing you can do to prepare yourself for this way of thinking it to educate yourself, which you've already done. Also, keep this knowledge in mind to temper your emotions. If you find yourself feeling mislead or disrespected or frustrated, just remind yourself that this is a cultural institution, and there's nothing you can do about it.

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