Going Dutch

Chosun Ilbo notes a change in Korean business--going
Dutch on the bill.

One aspect of Korean business is that the host always
picks up the food bill or bar tab. In fact, some
Koreans feel American businessmen are rude or impolite
by going 'Dutch' or buying drinks separately at the
bar.

In an interesting news article on changing Korean
business norms it cites that firms such as Hyundai-Kia Motor
Group have distributed detailed ethics guidelines to
staff. The memo include such maxims as, "Live only on
your salary," "Don't" cultivate a taste for luxurious
restaurants or bars," and "Go Dutch even on meals with
close colleagues."

How that will impact the workplace, one has to wait
and see. My guess is it will take some time. My advice
is to continue to pick up the bill if you offer to
take a Korean guest or colleague out to eat or for a
drink.