Open for Business

Dear Korean,

If I were to throw a party for a group of Korean's celebrating a new business venture, how would I impress them?

Cassius
Boston, USA

First of all, always remember the Foreigner Rule: Koreans generally do not expect non-Koreans to know anything about Korea. This means demonstrating even just a little bit of familiarity about Korean language and customs go a long way toward impressing Koreans. Including Korean food in the party, for example, is always a good idea.

It is also common to give gifts to a new business owner. Don't get so hung up on the "cultural" thing here. As always, the best gift is a thoughtful one that addresses the need, regardless of culture. But if you want to show off your familiarity with Korean customs, a flower pot or a bouquet is usually the gift of choice for a new business owner. Usually bouquets are given on a large stand, with a well-wishing messages printed on the ribbons. Like this:

This is a bouquet sent from Freestyle (a rap group) to Haha

(former co-host of Infinite Challenge) to celebrate the opening of

Haha's new restaurant. The ribbon says, from the right:

"Screw your business, I got my own stuff to worry about."

"Congratulations for the Release."

"The Seventh Album from Freestyle is available everywhere."

This is obviously a joke. Please do not try with your Korean business partner.

(source)

Alternatively, an orchid is also rather popular. For those who are horticulturally challenged, a typical orchid given as gifts in Korea looks like this:

If you live in Korea, you might have seen

these plants a lot in offices.

(source)

Of course, Korean lettering on the ribbons would make the gift all the more impressive. With that, best of luck for all the new business owners.

Got a question or a comment for the Korean? Email away at askakorean@gmail.com.