Korean Job Interviews — The Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Foreigners
You’ve polished your resume, you’ve mastered the art of the Nunchi (social awareness), and now you’ve scored the interview! Congratulations—you’re one step closer to landing your dream job in South Korea.
But hold up. A Korean job interview is a distinct cultural performance, often focusing just as much on respect, conformity, and attitude as it does on your technical skills. Misunderstanding the etiquette can cost you the job, regardless of your qualifications.
As a local, I’m here to give you the ultimate playbook: the vital Do’s and Don’ts you need to master to impress your future Korean hiring managers.
The Do’s: Show Respect and Reliability
These actions signal that you are a responsible, professional candidate who understands Korean corporate culture.
1. DO Master the Formal Greeting (The Bow)
The Action: Upon entering the room, and again when leaving, offer a clear, sincere bow (about 15 to 30 degrees).
The Message: This is the universal sign of respect for elders and superiors. It shows you acknowledge the hierarchy of the meeting. Don’t rush it, and make eye contact after the bow, not during.
2. DO Dress Conservatively and Impeccably
The Action: Wear a full suit. Dark colors (black, navy, or charcoal gray) are standard. Ensure everything is ironed, shoes are polished, and your hair is neat.
The Message: Dressing conservatively shows you take the position seriously and respect the company’s image. Flashy colors or casual attire are a massive red flag.
3. DO Prioritize Humility (Humility > Bragging)
The Action: Frame your achievements within the context of team success or learning. When asked about a weakness, provide a genuine weakness but immediately follow up with how you are actively working to fix it.
The Message: While confidence is good, excessive individualistic self-praise can be off-putting. Korean corporate culture values the team above the individual, and humility is seen as a sign of good character.
4. DO Research the Company’s History and Values
The Action: Know the company’s founding history, mission statement, and its recent major projects.
The Message: Demonstrate that you view this job as more than just a paycheck; you are committed to the company’s long-term vision and culture. This shows loyalty, a highly prized Korean trait.
The Don’ts: Avoid Culture Clashes
These actions can seriously harm your chances, even if they are standard practice in your home country.
1. DON’T Be Late (Punctuality is Paramount)
The Error: Arriving exactly on time.
The Rule: Arrive at the building 15 minutes early. This gives you buffer time to compose yourself, check your appearance, and be waiting in the lobby. Arriving even one minute late is extremely disrespectful.
2. DON’T Interrupt or Challenge the Interviewer
The Error: Talking over the interviewer or aggressively debating a point.
The Rule: Listen patiently and speak only when addressed. If you need clarification, ask politely when they have finished their thought. Challenging an elder or superior during an interview is seen as arrogant and disrespectful to the hierarchy.
3. DON’T Mention Salary Expectations Too Early
The Error: Asking about pay, vacation days, or benefits in the first or second interview round.
The Rule: Focus the early interviews on your dedication and fit. Discussions about compensation are typically reserved for later rounds, after the company has made a soft commitment to you. Asking too early implies you prioritize money over company loyalty.
4. DON’T Skip the Exit Etiquette
The Error: Jumping straight up and walking out after the interviewer says thank you.
The Rule: Stand up, give a final sincere bow, thank them for their time, and take one step back before turning to leave. Your final impression is just as important as your first.
Master the hierarchy, show sincere respect, and frame your personal success within the context of the team. You’re ready to conquer the Korean job market!