Exchanging Business Cards in Korea: Etiquette Every Visitor Should Know

In Korea, exchanging business cards is a small but important ritual: offer and receive cards with both hands or with the right hand supported by the left, take a moment to read the card, and place it respectfully on the table or in a card holder rather than stuffing it into a pocket. These gestures show respect for the other person and their position. First impressions in Korean business often begin with this exchange.

Business card etiquette basics

Step	Good practice
Offering	Both hands, text facing the recipient
Receiving	Both hands, brief bow or nod
Reading	Look at the name and title
Placing	On the table during the meeting
Storing	In a card case, not a back pocket

Senior people usually exchange cards first, so follow the lead of your hosts.

Prepare enough cards

Bring more cards than you think you need, because meetings may include many participants. Running out of cards can be awkward. A bilingual card, with English on one side and Korean on the other, is appreciated and helps hosts remember your name and title.

Titles matter

Korean business culture pays close attention to job titles, which signal seniority. Make sure your title is clearly printed. When addressing Korean counterparts, using their title with their family name is more respectful than using first names.

During the meeting

Keep the cards you received on the table in front of you, arranged to match where people are seated. This helps you remember names. Do not write on someone's card in front of them.

After the meeting

Put the cards carefully into your card case when leaving. Following up with a short thank-you email within a day or two is good practice. More business protocol tips are available in our other guides.

Frequently asked questions

Should I bow?

A slight bow or nod is polite and appreciated.

Are digital business cards accepted?

They are growing in use, but paper cards remain standard.

What if I receive several cards at once?

Take time to read each one before placing it down.