Read more
Divided along the 38th parallel, modern Korea is the subject of two very different political, social, and economic experiments. Today the military might of the Marxist-Leninist North confronts the soft power and prosperity of the uber-capitalist South. Yet family and cultural ties bind the peoples of both Koreas, and reunification remains a cherished goal.
Culture Smart! Korea helps you to navigate your way through the complexities of life in these non-identical twin societies, where, even in the affluent westernized South, sensitive issues can cause misunderstanding. By introducing visitors to the Koreans at home and at work, their customs, attitudes and values, this book paves the way for an incomparably more engaging experience, whatever your reason for traveling.
List of contents
Brief History - Politics - Economic Life - Traditions - Friendships & Family - Relationships - Bureaucracy - Religion - Humour - Local Holidays - Taboos - Invitations - Gifts - Dress - Business etiquette - Punctuality & Appointments - Team working - Communication - Negotiating - Women in Society - Tips - Eating Out - Traditional Food - Dos and Dont - Making Friends
About the author
James Hoare spent over thirty years in the British Diplomatic Service, with postings to Seoul and Beijing. His last job was Chargé D Affaires in Pyongyang, North Korea, where he established the British Embassy. He has a Ph.D. in East Asian history and has written extensively on China, Japan, and the two Koreas. Since retirement, he has become a regular radio and television commentator on Korea. He also teaches at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. His numerous books and articles about East Asia, include
Embassies in the East: The Story of the British and Their Embassies in China, Japan and Korea from 1859 to the Present (1999), and, with his wife, Susan Pares,
North Korea in the 21st Century: An Interpretative Guide (2005), and an edited three-volume collection,
Critical Readings on North and South Korea (2013).
Summary
Have a more meaningful and successful time abroad through a better understanding of the local culture. Chapters on values, attitudes, customs, and daily life will help you make the most of your visit, while tips on etiquette and communication will help you navigate unfamiliar situations and avoid faux pas.
Report
"Culture Smart! has come to the rescue of hapless travellers, - Sunday Times Travel"the perfect introduction to the weird, wonderful and downright odd quirks and customs of various countries, - Global Travel"full of fascinating, as well as common sense, tips to help you avoid embarrassing faux pas, - Observer"as useful as they are entertaining," - Easy Jet Magazine "offer glimpses into the psyche of a faraway world, - New York Times
