Thoughts on Korean Business by Don Southerton

Don Southerton In addition to a number of books, case studies and commentaries, I’ve written several short articles that give snapshots into Korea.  This week it’s a storyline strongly tied to the Hyundai Motor Group. That said, it’s also very relevant for all engaged and interested in Korea facing business as I provide some deep insights into Korea business DNA. The Hyundai Galloper  Shinhwa,  Myth and Legend With the introduction of Genesis, the Hyundai Motor Group’s premium luxury car division as well as Kia...

W ith the new year and 2018, I’d like to share a few weekend Korea business reads. All Korea facing– lots for overseas operations in the Americas, Ireland, UK, ME, India, Europe, and AU; lots that share insights into Korea and the workplace. Much very relevant for firms doing business with Korea or global Korean companies, too. Here’s a link for a Download. http://www.bridgingculture.com/assets/toolbox.pdf One question we are getting with the new year is “Don, How Best Do We Work with You and Get the Team Support?” I happy to say many companies do recognize the benefits in offering our training, coaching,  mentoring  and strategy services…. and we take this role very seriously amid the uncertain changes soon to impact local operations . Let’s chat..  dsoutherton@bridgingculture.com  or better yet text +1-310-866-3777 then and we can chat by phone. ###…

Don Southerton  1. Why do Americans/ westerners need Korean cultural training? For westerners this may be the first time working with a Korea team. This opportunity brings with it the need to better understand their new partner’s culture, workplace norms and expectations. In most cases, the western team will be interacting with a Korean expatriate team. Some of the expatriates will hold a line managerial position with day-to-day responsibilities alongside western managers, while others will hold key management C-level positions, such as CEO, COO, or CFO.   In many, if not most, cases these expats may operate as a “shadow management” with considerable oversight of local operations. With the best of intentions, the expats will look to build strong collaboration and teamwork and advocate less a sense of us and them. However, they do bring with them Korean work norms that can conflict with western work-life balance and western ways of working.   More so, ...