Changing Korea; Understanding Culture and Communication

In the last fifty years, Korea has transformed itself from an agrarian, Confucian-based culture into a global and technological powerhouse, and one of the most important political and economic forces in the world. Based on previous research and face-to-face interviews, the book shows how contemporary Koreans negotiate traditional Confucian values and Western capitalistic values in their everyday encounters - particularly in business and professional contexts. This is a useful companion book for courses in international business, intercultural communication, and Asian studies.
«By illuminating a complex and subtle view of contemporary Korea, this intriguing volume provides powerful insights into the transformation of a culture. Rich with examples, research, and analysis, the book compares and contrasts the heritage of collectivism with the new Asian dynamism in an accessible and stimulating volume that deserves a place on every interculturalist's bookshelf.» (Janet M. Bennett, Executive Director, The Intercultural Communication Institute)
«The theme of an Asian, collectivistic society in flux is captured beautifully in this book via well-documented empirical studies, first-hand interview data, contemporary communication examples, and relevant and useful critical incidents. If you have any curiosity to learn more about the contemporary Korean culture and communication, this book is a must-read.» (Stella Ting-Toomey, Professor of Intercultural Communication, California State University at Fullerton)
«One of the major strengths of this book lies in the abundant, insightful, case studies that demonstrate how historical and cultural values play out in communicative behavior, and these can be a great asset for business leaders in today's world.» (Dr. Nei Hei Park, Senior Advisory to the Boston Consulting Group, Seoul, Korea)