🧅 Myths about Working in Korean Company

Hey Lounge, great to be back! 👋 🧅 The past few weeks have been packed with moments worth sharing. Since joining my current company, I've been bombarded with questions from fellow foreigners about Korean workplace myths. After a decade here (half in Korean companies or freelancing for local clients), let's debunk some misconceptions! 🫡 1. Hierarchy? Present But Flexible this days Reality: Yes, hierarchy exists (like everywhere?) - but its strictness varies wildly. I've experienced: Micromanaging bosses (the WORST kind) who wanted work to be done stictly according to their vision (even if its flawed) and also Chill superiors who just wanted quality work delivered. Both have their + and - If you want to remain in that position no other choice but to adapt... most of the bosses are sucessfull people who believe in their past experiences and path they walked, how do you plan to change such a person? My advice is to observe first, then "match" their style, while still being comfortable and true to yourself. Fun fact: Koreans don't expect foreigners to follow hierarchy strictly... unless you're fluent and deeply understand the culture. Not to flex, but my comfort in Korean work environments has actually landed me more responsibilities... kind of messed up. 🍷 2. Mandatory Drinking? Not Really Reality: I skipped about 50% of work dinners with no consequences. Most bosses won't care... unless they specifically request your presence. Pro tips: Drink at your own pace (no need to match others!). You can leave when you've had enough (everybody there wants to go home to chill and watch Netflix) *** I have a friend who never attended because he didn't drink - long story short he did not fit Korean working environment and he now works for himself! ⏳ 3. Overtime: It's Complicated Reality: Some departments overwork; others respect boundaries. I stay late when I choose to meet my own standards. My current ambitious boss keeps me learning new skills daily 📚 (exhausting but rewarding!). Heavy workload = constant growth? I do it for my personal growth so I don't mind it now... 🧗‍♂️ 4. The Foreigner Ceiling: Real But Not Absolute Reality: Advancement is harder but possible. Successful foreigners I know mastered the Korean language, understand Korean office culture, and also quite good at delivering results. YET! most hit a ceiling eventually... My advice not to stagnate out of loyalty I learned this the hard way after wasting a year at a dead-end position. After all Korea might not be the last destination point... Its far from being perfect too Final Thoughts 💭 Korean workplaces have their quirks, but they're not the horror stories people imagine. The real skill is navigating them while maintaining your worth. We all professional and adults too so its just another challenge life throwing at us. I see more and more people who start at Korean companies this days. Maybe some of the present here? What's been your experience? Let's discuss below! 👇