Korea · work
The city is still on the clock at 10pm
Seoul’s skyline is a work light. You will meet people who are tired in a proud way and people who are tired of being tired. Both are true. Your job as a guest is not to lecture them with a Western think-piece.
Original editorial. Labor law changes; we will not quote unofficial hour-caps as gospel. Relocating? Official Korean government sources only.
What you will see
- Dinner can be work. So can karaoke. If you are invited, go once, drink what you can handle, do not become the story.
- Hierarchy is audible in language and seating. Follow the oldest or the host unless told otherwise.
- Speed is a compliment in a lot of offices. Replies come fast. Ghosting a business Kakao thread is louder than you think.
- PC bangs and cafés are overflow offices. Buy something. Do not camp six hours on a water cup.
The kindest thing you can do on a work trip: learn how to say thank you, and leave when the host’s energy drops.
Visiting for meetings
Be on time to the minute. Cards still appear in formal rooms. Do not compare everything to Silicon Valley out loud. Bring a small gift that is about your city, not a branded USB graveyard.
Trip side: Seoul · dating manners.