07 QUIZ

MULTICULTURAL DIVERSITY

SUBMITTED BY:

USMAN, MOHAIMA

UTTO, BAI HANIN

BSTM 3-1CA

SUBMITTED TO:

MS. REYNOSO, MARY JIM

INSTRUCOR
A. Look into the cultural guides of different countries viahttps://www.commisceo-
global.com/resources/country-guides
B. Select at least three (3) countries that you prefer to go or know more about their culture
C. Discuss briefly their social customs and etiquettes and business or workplace practices.

1. South Korea –

A. Social customs and Etiquette

The rich cultural legacy of South Korea is reflected in its social norms, which combine modern influences
with traditional values. Many elements of traditional etiquette are still significant despite the nation's
growing globalization. Respect for others, especially seniors and those in higher positions, is ingrained in
South Korean social practices. Bowing, presenting gifts, and eating etiquette are examples of customs
and practices that demonstrate the significance placed on politeness, formality, and indirect
communication. It is possible to handle social circumstances in South Korea with dignity and respect if
you are aware of and adjust to these conventions.

ETIQUETTE: Bowing and Greetings

 Bowing: When meeting elders or at formal events, a small bow is a customary greeting.
Eye Contact: Making direct or excessive eye contact, especially with superiors or elders, might be
interpreted as impolite, even though it's vital.
 Shoes Off: It's usual to take off your shoes when you enter houses, temples, or traditional dining
establishments.
 Handshake: Although they are more formal than in Western societies, handshakes are prevalent,
particularly in commercial contexts. As a demonstration of respect, younger people frequently
extend their hands first and may support their right elbow with their left hand.
Korean to Greet: When foreigners use Korean to greet others, it is appreciated. For example,
"Annyeonghaseyo" (안녕았세요) means "Hello," while "Annyeong" ( 안녕) means "Hello" in a more
informal context.

Gifts Giving:

 Giving Gifts: On certain occasions, people frequently exchange gifts. Giving gifts with both hands
is traditional, and wrapping them neatly is considered kind.
 Gift wrapping: Pick beautiful and appropriate packaging since presentation matters.
Gift Selection: Steer clear of overpriced or lavish presents as they may come across as pompous.
Receiving a Gift: To show appreciation, open a gift in privacy.

Dining Etiquette:

 Passing the food: to others at the table, particularly the more senior members of the company,
before helping oneself is regarded as courteous.
Drinking Etiquette: It is considered courteous to hold the glass with both hands when someone
pours you a drink. Additionally, you ought to offer to pour beverages for other people, especially
elderly people. As a sign of respect, it's customary to turn your head slightly away from the older
person when sipping your drink.
  Chopstick Etiquette: To avoid a funeral ritual, do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice.
Sharing: Food from communal plates is frequently shared. Serve yourself using the utensils that
are provided.
Elderly First: Don't start eating until the oldest person has finished.

Social Behavior:

 Avoid clear of direct confrontation: South Koreans often steer clear of confrontational or overtly
criticizing behavior, particularly when it occurs in public. In the event of a disagreement, it is
frequently handled more delicately or indirectly.
Personal space: Despite the inherent friendliness and warmth of South Koreans, some degree of
personal space is nevertheless respected. Personal space, however, could be less strict in busy
areas.
Public behavior: Although kissing and holding hands are more popular in younger groups and in
less formal circumstances, refrain from making such public shows of affection in more
conservative or formal settings.
Loud talking: It is not acceptable to talk loudly in public, especially in small areas like elevators or
public transit. Keep your composure and remain calm.

Shoes and Personal Hygiene:

 Taking off shoes: It is usual in many Korean houses, traditional lodgings (like hanok), and
establishments (like some restaurants) to take off your shoes as you enter. You will frequently be
given indoor slippers.
Public hygiene: People tend to stay to themselves in public places like buses and trains, and
cleanliness is a top concern. Generally speaking, it is considered impolite to eat, talk loudly, or
use a phone while in public.

Festivals and Holidays:

 Seollal, or Lunar New Year: Is one of the most important holidays in South Korea. Younger
people sometimes bow to seniors at family traditions in exchange for gifts of money and respect.
The Korean Harvest Festival, or Chuseok: Is another significant event that is comparable to
Thanksgiving. People visit their hometowns to honor their ancestors and have a big family
dinner.
Buddhist holidays: Parades and temple rites are used to commemorate festivals like Buddha's
Birthday in South Korea, which has a sizable Buddhist community.

B. BUSINESS OR WORKPLACE PRACTICES

Confucian values, which emphasize deference to authority, hierarchy, and harmony within the group,
have a strong influence on South Korea's working culture.

Hierarchy and Respect:

  Seniority: The most senior individual in the room frequently makes choices since seniority is
highly respected.
Formal Titles: When speaking to coworkers, particularly those who are older or more senior, it is
crucial to use proper titles (such as "Director," "Manager").
Bowing: When addressing elders or superiors, a small bow is a customary sign of respect.

Work Ethic and Dedication:

 long Hours: The strong work ethic and lengthy work hours of South Koreans are well-known.
Company Loyalty: Workers frequently remain with their firms for a long period because they are
loyal to them.
Education and Qualifications: Advanced degrees are frequently expected of employees, and
education and qualifications are highly respected.

Business Attire

 Formal and Conservative Dress: Business wear in South Korea is usually formal and
conservative, especially in traditional industries. Both men and women typically wear suits, and
dress requirements are rigorously followed, particularly in formal settings and business
meetings. Although there may be more latitude in dress in more creative fields (such as fashion
or advertising), formality is still expected.
Neat and Grooming: Professionals are expected to always be tidy and well-groomed because
appearance is highly valued by South Koreans.

Meetings and Communication:

 Formal and Structured Meetings: In South Korea, business meetings are usually formal and have
a set format. Meetings are run in a very structured way, and the agenda is frequently
predetermined. Being on time is crucial since people greatly respect punctuality.
use of Honorifics: It's crucial to utilize formal language and titles while speaking to people in a
business context. For example, "Director Lee" and "Manager Kim" are frequently used.
indirect communication: Particularly in professional settings. They may respond "I will think
about it" or provide an ambiguous response in place of outright expressing "no" or dismissing a
proposal. Understanding non-verbal clues and reading between the lines are crucial in these
circumstances.
 Silence as Respect: It's not always awkward to remain silent during meetings. It can be
interpreted as a show of respect, particularly when senior members are deliberating on a
proposal.

Gender Roles in the Workplace:

 Gender Equality: Traditional gender norms continue to impact workplace dynamics, especially in
more conservative areas, despite South Korea's improvement in this area. Although more
women are joining the profession, they could encounter obstacles including the "glass ceiling,"
work-life balance, and unequal career growth chances in comparison to men.
Respect for Women: Nonetheless, a lot of businesses are concentrating on enhancing equality in
the workplace as a result of increased awareness of gender discrimination.
Additional Etiquette:

 Gift-Giving: It's customary to exchange gifts, particularly on holidays or other special occasions.
Business meals: Establishing connections and having business conversations are common uses
for business dinners.
Alcohol Use: Sharing alcoholic beverages is a popular social activity that fosters trust.

2. THAILAND

A. Social Customs and Etiquette

Thailand is renowned for its rich cultural legacy, which is strongly impacted by Buddhist customs,
reverence for the monarchy, and a strong sense of belonging. Thai social conventions place a strong
emphasis on humility, deference, and courtesy.

Greetings and Respect

 Elder Respect: Elder respect is highly valued in Thai society. Younger people are supposed to
treat older people with the utmost respect and to be respectful of them both verbally and
physically. This entails bowing, speaking politely, and giving them precedence in social settings.
 Wai: The traditional Thai greeting involves bowing your head slightly and pressing your palms
together in a prayer-like manner. The more respect exhibited, the higher the wai.
Head is Sacred: The head is regarded as the body's most sacred organ. Refrain from touching
anyone's head, particularly a child's.
Impure Feet: The feet are regarded as the lowest body component. Don't aim your feet at holy
items or people.
Hierarchy: It's critical to show respect for seniors and other authority figures.
 Bowing and Respectful Gestures: Although bowing is a customary way to greet people in
Thailand, it is not as extravagant as it is in some other Asian nations. Rather, the wai (ไหว้), a
traditional Thai greeting, entails kneeling slightly and pressing the palms of the hands together
in a prayer-like manner.

Gift Giving:

 Traditions of Gift Giving: As a show of respect, it is traditional to present a gift with both hands.
Gifts that are too costly or ostentatious should be avoided as they could make the recipient feel
embarrassed. Food, fruit, or, if you're a guest, souvenirs from your native country are typical
presents. It's crucial to wrap things beautifully when gifting them.
Avoid Certain Gifts: Some gifts are unlucky, such as sharp items (knives, scissors) or particular
hues (black, which is connected to sorrow). Due to its association with burial customs, giving an
even number of objects is also considered unlucky.
 Colors & Flowers: In Thailand, gifts of flowers, such as orchids, are much valued. White flowers
are connected with funerals, so avoid gifting them.

Dining Etiquette:
  Shared Meals: Since many Thai meals are shared, using community dishes is typical.
Eating Utensils: Thai people usually use a fork and spoon when eating.
Leaving Food: To express your satisfaction, it's considered polite to leave a small amount of food
on your plate.
Noisy Eating: As a sign of gratitude for the food, loud slurping and burping are regarded as
courteous.
 Avoiding Waste: It's crucial to consume everything on your plate because it's considered
wasteful to leave meals unfinished. It's acceptable to leave some food if you can't finish it, but
doing so frequently could be interpreted as rude.

Temple Etiquette:

 Dress modesty: when you visit temples. Keep your knees and shoulders covered.
Take Off Your Shoes: Before entering a temple, take off your shoes.
Respectful Conduct: Refrain from pointing, chatting loudly, or touching the Buddha statues.
Photography: Take care when taking pictures, particularly of monks and prayerpers.

Public Behavior:

 Physical Contact: Kissing and hugging are examples of public displays of affection that are
typically deemed unacceptable, particularly in more conventional or rural areas. It's okay to hold
hands, especially with friends of the same gender, but making too much physical contact in
public might be awkward.
Pointing and Gestures: Pointing with your finger, especially at people or holy items, is
considered rude. Use your thumb or make a gesture with your entire hand if you must point.
Additionally, as the feet are regarded as the lowest part of the body and are a sign of disrespect,
refrain from pointing them at holy items or people.
Personal Space: Although Thai people are generally gregarious and outgoing, they also respect
others' personal space, particularly in crowded settings like public transportation. Being very
physical with strangers is not acceptable, and respecting others' personal space.

General Etiquette:

 Smiling: Friendly smiles can make a big impression, and Thai people are recognized for their
warm smiles.
In Thai culture, patience is considered a virtue. Refrain from hurrying or becoming impatient.
In order to avoid confrontation, Thai people frequently communicate indirectly.
Saving Face: It's critical to refrain from making people feel ashamed or degraded.

B. Thailand business or workplace Practices

Understanding local etiquette is crucial for success in the Thai workplace, as the country's business
culture combines traditional values with contemporary corporate methods. The nation's strong regard
for hierarchy, civility, and reverence to authority—all crucial components of Thai business dealings—have
a profound impact on the culture.

Hierarchy and Respect for Authority:

 Respect for Seniority: Hierarchy is very important in Thai corporate culture. Seniority is highly
valued, both in terms of age and position. Decision-making, conduct, and language all
demonstrate this respect. In both formal and informal settings, junior or younger staff members
are supposed to be respectful to their superiors.
Positions and Titles: People are frequently referred to by their titles rather than their first
names, and job titles are highly significant. Similar to "Mr." or "Ms." in English, Khun ( 츄츸츓) may
be used before someone's name in formal contexts, but the title or status of the individual is
what is most respected. It is customary to address someone by their complete title (e.g.,
Director, Manager, Executive) at meetings or other official contexts.
 polite Language: In order to preserve harmony and respect for one another, Thai businesses use
formal, courteous language while speaking to superiors or other individuals of higher status. It is
assumed that everyone follows these customs.

Business Meetings Etiquette:

 Formal, Structured Meetings: When senior executives are involved, meetings in Thailand are
often formal. Expect to keep decorum and adhere to a defined agenda. Before you talk or do
anything else, you should wait for the senior member of the group to begin.
Indirect Communication: In general, indirect communication is valued in Thai culture.
Particularly when speaking with someone in a higher position, people may be uncomfortable to
publicly say "no" or to disagree. It's crucial to be able to read between the lines and
comprehend non-verbal clues because you may instead hear answers like "I will think about it"
or "Let's see how it goes."
 Silence as Respect: Is a show of respect and thoughtfulness in Thai business meetings, especially
when it comes from senior individuals. It is not regarded as awkward. Before expressing an
opinion, they might pause to think or digest the facts.
Avoiding Confrontation: Thai people generally steer clear of direct disagreement and
confrontation. It's typical in business to avoid talking about unpleasant subjects, and you should
be careful not to be too direct or critical because this could come out as disrespectful. We value
tact and diplomacy.

Business Etiquette:

 Although it is appreciated, punctuality is frequently not strictly followed.

Gift-Giving: It's customary to exchange gifts, particularly at holidays or other special events.
Business Cards: Show respect by holding business cards in both hands.
Dress Code: Men should wear dark suits and ties for business meetings, while ladies should wear
conservative dresses or suits.

Punctuality and Time Management:

  Being on time: Is very important in a professional atmosphere, particularly when attending
meetings. Being late might be interpreted as disrespectful or unimportant.
Time management: Although Thai business culture might be laid back in certain ways, official
business requires efficiency and adherence to deadlines.

Business Dress Code:

 Formal Attire: In general, Thai business attire is conservative, particularly in more established
businesses. It is expected of both sexes to dress in formal, well-groomed attire, such as a formal
dress or suit for women and a suit and tie for men.
Professionalism and Modesty: At the office, attire should convey both professionalism and
modesty. For instance, men should refrain from wearing casual clothing, such as shorts or t-
shirts, even in casual situations, while women should refrain from wearing apparel that is
excessively revealing.
environment Considerations: Because of Thailand's tropical environment, business wear is
typically more airy and light. Since many offices will have air conditioning, it's usually a good idea
to pack a light jacket or blazer.
 Workplace Behavior and Attitudes
 Group Harmony and Consensus: Because group harmony is highly valued in Thai society,
employees frequently put the needs of the team or business ahead of their own goals. Self-
promotion and boasting about one's accomplishments are viewed as improper. Being humble is
highly regarded.
 Respect for Authority: Junior staff members are not allowed to publicly challenge authority and
are expected to show deference to their more senior colleagues. Nonetheless, Thai managers
frequently adopt a paternalistic approach, attending to the well-being of their staff. Because of
this, Thai workplaces tend to be friendly and familial, with a strong emphasis on loyalty between
bosses and employees.
Gender Roles: In many industries, traditional gender roles still exist, and women may encounter
subtle obstacles to full respect, especially in higher-level employment. Nonetheless, a large
number of Thai women hold executive positions, particularly in the expanding number of
contemporary or global corporations.

3. JAPAN

A. social customs and etiquettes (example dining, gift giving, greeting, meeting and etc)

Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and unique traditions, places a high value on social customs
and etiquette.

Greetings and Bowing:

 Bowing: A Universal Gesture of Respect. Bowing is a fundamental aspect of Japanese social

interaction, conveying respect, gratitude, apology, and greetings.
 The Importance of Shoes Off: In Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering
private homes, traditional guesthouses, temples, and some restaurants. This practice stems from
 a long-standing tradition of keeping the interior of homes clean and separate from the outside
world.
 Eye Contact: Keep moderate eye contact when bowing because too much eye contact can be
interpreted as impolite.


Gift Giving: A Symbolic Gesture of Appreciation.

 Gift-giving: Is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, serving as a way to express gratitude,

strengthen relationships, and celebrate special occasions.
 Gift wrapping: How the gift is presented matters. Choose wrapping that is stylish and classy.
Gift Selection: Pick presents that are considerate and suitable for the event.
Receiving a Gift: To show appreciation, open a gift in privacy.

Dining Etiquette:

 Respecting Food and Tradition- Saying Itadakimasu before starting a meal which translates to "I
humbly receive." This gesture expresses gratitude for the food and the effort put into preparing
it. Also saying - Gochisosama deshita after finishing a meal, meaning "Thank you for the meal."
This phrase expresses appreciation for the food and the host's hospitality.
 Chopstick Etiquette: Since it seems like a funeral rite, refrain from inserting chopsticks upright in
a bowl of rice.
Slurping Noodles: Slurping noodles is a courteous way to express your enjoyment of their flavor.
Sharing dishes: When taking food from shared plates, use the appropriate serving utensils.

Respect for Privacy:

 Personal Space: Don't stand too near to someone or encroach on their personal space since
Japanese people respect privacy and personal space. Asking personal inquiries, unless you are
really close to the person, is also regarded as rude.
Avoid Touching: In Japanese culture, it's customary to avoid making physical contact, such as
patting someone on the back or touching their arm, especially when you don't know them well.

Visiting Temples and Shrines:

 Dress Modestly: Wear modest, respectful clothing when you visit temples and shrines. You
should usually take off your shoes before entering places of worship.
Purification Rituals: It is common to perform a purification ritual at a water basin before to
entering a shrine or temple. Before you enter the hallowed area, wash your mouth and hands
with the ladle.
Prayers and Offerings: As a symbol of respect, it is customary to bow slightly before making an
offering (such a coin) at a shrine.

Seasonal Festivals and Etiquette:

 Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing: Is a popular springtime activity in Japan where people
congregate in parks to take in the beauty of the flowers. During a hanami (flower viewing)
 picnic, it's crucial to tidy up after yourself and show consideration for other people and the
environment.
New Year's (Shogatsu): Is the most significant holiday. During the first few days of January, it is
traditional to visit shrines and offer prayers for wealth and good health. Families get together
for special dinners at this time, and many businesses close.

Public Behavior:

 Public Displays of Affection: In general, public expressions of love are regarded as improper.
Noise Levels: Avoid making too much noise in public areas, particularly when using public
transit.
Queueing: Japanese folks are quite careful when it comes to waiting in line.
 Public transportation: Maintaining quiet and order on public transportation is essential.
Avoid loud conversations, talking on the phone, or playing music without headphones.

Respecting the Rules:

 Respecting Social Norms and Following to the Rules: These values are highly valued in Japan.
This covers everything, from standing in line to following local laws. It's crucial to abide by social
norms because Japanese people generally expect others to do likewise.

B. Business and workplace practices (example meetings, titles, what to wear and etc.

The Japanese workplace is a fascinating blend of traditional values and modern practices. While some
aspects of the work culture remain deeply ingrained in historical customs, others have evolved to adapt
to the globalized economy and changing workforce demographics.

Hierarchy and Respect:

 Formal Titles and Protocols: It's crucial to use the proper titles and bows, particularly when
speaking to superiors.
Seniority & Age: People who are older and have more life experience are usually respected and
appreciated.
Clear Chain of Command: There are usually distinct lines of authority and decisions are made
from the top down.
 Business Cards (Meishi): The exchange of business cards (meishi) is a formal ritual in Japan,
often considered a crucial step in building relationships.
 Bowing: Is also used to greet colleagues, superiors, and clients, demonstrating respect and
professionalism.

Meetings:

Meetings in Japan are often characterized by a focus on consensus-building and a formal approach
to decision-making.
  Preparation: Meetings are meticulously planned, and participants are expected to be well-
prepared with detailed information and presentations.
 Decision-making: Decisions are often reached through a process of discussion and consensus,
involving multiple stakeholders.
 Dress Code: Japanese workplaces typically have a formal dress code, emphasizing conservative
attire and a professional appearance.
 Traditional Attire: Suits and ties for men and skirts or dresses for women are common.
 Modern Trends: While traditional attire remains prevalent, some companies are adopting more
relaxed dress codes, particularly in tech-driven industries.

Formalities in Communication:

 Indirect Communication: In Japan, people typically communicate more subtly and indirectly.
Directly saying "no" can be interpreted as impolite or combative. Alternatively, Japanese people
can use more subtle ways to convey dissent or reluctance, such as " ちょっと難しいですね " (Chotto
muzukashii desu ne, "That's a bit difficult") or " 考えてみます" (Kangaete mimasu, "I'll think about
it").
Nonverbal Communication: Facial expressions, body language, and voice intonation are all
crucial components of Japanese communication. For instance, as it is considered a show of
respect, people frequently avoid making direct eye contact, especially with superiors.
Additionally, silence is essential to communication because it gives people time to think and
carefully consider their response.
 Formality in Correspondence and Emails: Business correspondence and emails in Japan are
quite formal. Always speak in a courteous tone and use polite language ( 敬 詞 keigo). Use
honorifics and appropriate titles when communicating in a formal setting. "どうぞよろしくお願いいたしま
す" (Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu) is a typical way to conclude emails. It means "I look forward
to working with you."

Workplace Relationships:

 Senior (senpai) and junior (kohai) relationship: Employees have a hierarchical relationship
known as the Senpai-Kohai Relationship. Junior staff members receive direction and mentoring
from senior staff members. In addition to respect, the connection is marked by a sense of duty
to help those who are less seasoned or younger.
Teamwork: In Japan, group success is valued more than individual accomplishments. Employees
frequently put in long hours to show their dedication to the team because they believe that
teamwork is crucial to reaching objectives. Being cooperative and encouraging to your coworkers
is crucial.

Business Meals:

 Mealtime Socialization: Business meetings frequently turn into dinner parties. The custom of
sharing meals together provides a more casual setting for fostering relationships and getting to
know one another. Being considerate and mindful of your eating habits are crucial.
Meal Payment: In professional settings, the senior individual or the one who called the meeting
frequently covers the cost of the meal. It's courteous to offer to pay for lunch or supper if a
Japanese coworker extends an invitation, but you should expect them to insist on paying.
 Toasting: The host typically makes a toast with kanpai (cheers) during formal business lunches. It
is usual to wait for the senior to make the first toast when clinking glasses.

Workplace Culture:

 long Working Hours: Workaholism is frequently the result of the lengthy working hours that are
a culture in many Japanese companies.
Company Loyalty: Workers frequently spend their whole careers with the same organization.
Cooperation and Teamwork: Cooperation and teamwork are highly regarded.

Relationship Building (Nemawashi):

 Prioritizing Personal Relationships: In Japanese business, establishing solid personal ties is

crucial.
Informal Gatherings: Building trust and understanding need social gatherings like dinners and
drinks.
Patience and persistence: Are essential since meaningful friendships may take time to form.

D. Respond the following processing questions

 What are things you’ve learned or realized from doing this activity?.

We have gained a great deal of knowledge about our three selected countries through these activities,
which have opened our eyes to their customs, values, culture, and manners. We think that this exercise
will help us in the future, wherever our paths may take us. Understanding the customs and etiquette of
these countries improves our learning and comprehension, which will eventually help us in our future
employment in these nations. and this exercise provides us with comprehensive knowledge on the
cultural distinctions of these nations that we will likely visit in the near future.

 How are these learning or realizations helpful and applicable in your future work in tourism
and hospitality establishment?

Understanding various cultures, how to cope with the real world effectively, and—above all—how to
handle conflict situations when they arise are the lessons and insights that will be useful to us in our
work in the tourism and hospitality sectors in the near future. Because, as we've seen in the
establishment, not all of your performance is good; occasionally, you receive what are known as
incidental reports. However, this shouldn't stop you from working; rather, you should use it as a chance
to be the best version of yourself and put your all into your work. Understanding the codes of good
manners and proper conduct that are generally accepted in environmental work, particularly in the
tourism and hospitality industry, which is well-known as one of the hospitable industries, is crucial for
successful work. We must apply professional ethics or work ethics to ourselves in order to improve our
working skills in the proper way. we now know how to approach my next work and cultivate positive
relationships with my industry peers. In order to demonstrate how each of these traits may offer helpful
direction in figuring out how to collaborate with other people in an ethical way, we must also
comprehend cultural competency, awareness, sensitivity, humility, and responsiveness.