What's the tipping culture in Seoul business contexts?

No tipping required anywhere - it's actually considered rude. Service charges are included in restaurant bills. This applies to taxis, hotels, and restaurants.

How late do business dinners typically run?

Business dinners start around 7 PM and often include 2-3 venues (dinner, then drinks, then karaoke). Expect to finish around 10-11 PM minimum, sometimes later. Plan no morning meetings the day after.

Is English widely spoken in Seoul business districts?

Most business professionals speak conversational English, but technical discussions may need translation help. Download Papago app and don't hesitate to ask for clarification during meetings.

What's the best way to get around between business meetings?

Seoul subway is fastest and most reliable. Taxis get stuck in traffic and cost 10x more. Most business districts (Gangnam, Jung-gu, Yeouido) are well-connected by subway lines 2, 4, and 9.

How to Plan a 3-Day Business Trip to Seoul

Book flights to Incheon (ICN), stay in Gangnam or Jung-gu near your meetings, and budget $150-200 per day. Seoul's business districts are well-connected by subway, and most meetings happen between 9 AM and 6 PM with dinner often extending business discussions.

Book your flight and accommodation. Fly into Incheon International Airport (ICN) - it's Seoul's main international hub. Book hotels in Gangnam-gu for tech/finance meetings, Jung-gu for government/traditional business, or Yeouido for banking. The Conrad, Grand Hyatt, or Four Seasons are reliable for business travelers. Book at least 2 weeks ahead.
Arrange airport transfers. Airport Railroad Express (AREX) takes 43 minutes to Seoul Station for $4, then transfer to subway. Taxi costs $60-80 and takes 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. KAL Limousine Bus costs $12 and stops at major hotels. Download Citymapper app for navigation.
Plan your meeting schedule. Schedule meetings between 9 AM-12 PM and 2 PM-6 PM. Avoid scheduling during lunch (12-2 PM) as this is sacred time. Build in 30-45 minutes between meetings for subway travel. Meetings often run over, so don't pack your schedule too tightly.
Prepare for business dinners. Expect dinner invitations - declining is considered rude. These typically start at 7 PM and can last 3-4 hours with multiple venues. Keep your evening of arrival and final night free. Learn basic chopstick etiquette and never refuse the first drink offered.
Set up local connectivity. Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device at ICN airport for $8/day or buy a prepaid SIM. Most hotels have good Wi-Fi, but you'll need data for subway navigation and translation apps. Download Papago translator app before arrival.
Handle business card protocol. Bring business cards with Korean translation on reverse (order these 2 weeks ahead). Present and receive cards with both hands, bow slightly, and read the card before putting it away respectfully. Never write on someone's business card in front of them.

What's the tipping culture in Seoul business contexts?: No tipping required anywhere - it's actually considered rude. Service charges are included in restaurant bills. This applies to taxis, hotels, and restaurants.
How late do business dinners typically run?: Business dinners start around 7 PM and often include 2-3 venues (dinner, then drinks, then karaoke). Expect to finish around 10-11 PM minimum, sometimes later. Plan no morning meetings the day after.
Is English widely spoken in Seoul business districts?: Most business professionals speak conversational English, but technical discussions may need translation help. Download Papago app and don't hesitate to ask for clarification during meetings.
What's the best way to get around between business meetings?: Seoul subway is fastest and most reliable. Taxis get stuck in traffic and cost 10x more. Most business districts (Gangnam, Jung-gu, Yeouido) are well-connected by subway lines 2, 4, and 9.