What should I know about job interview etiquette in Korea?

I went through a Korean interview process at a chaebol last year, and the differences from European interviews were significant. Here is what I wish I had known.

Formality is much higher. Wear a dark suit (charcoal or navy), white shirt, conservative tie. For women, dark suit or knee-length skirt with closed-toe shoes. Hair tidy, minimal accessories. Even at startups, interview attire is typically more formal than the day-to-day dress code.

Bow on entering and leaving. A slight bow when greeting interviewers is expected. Hand over your business card (if you have one) with both hands. Accept theirs the same way and place it on the table in front of you, not in your pocket immediately.

Group interviews are common at large companies. You may interview alongside 3 to 5 other candidates with multiple interviewers asking questions. Be respectful of other candidates, do not interrupt, and answer concisely (1 to 2 minutes per answer).

Expected questions cover motivation (why Korea, why this company specifically), commitment (long-term plans, family situation), and behavioral examples. Korean interviews often probe whether you will stay long-term and adapt to Korean work culture, including overtime and hierarchical communication. Be honest but show enthusiasm for the company and an openness to Korean work norms. Sending a thank-you email after is appreciated but not yet universal.