Greetings

 When an American says hello, some Koreans may respond with just a smile.

 Americans prefer exchanging verbal greetings; saying "Hello." or waving their hands. They may feel slightly bewildered by receiving only a smile in return.

Using the index finger to beckon someone

 Americans commonly use an upturned index finger to beckon someone. Koreans use their index finger only when beckoning animals, never to beckon a person. Koreans will beckon other persons by waving the whole hand with the finger pointing downward. (if the finger pointing upward, it means to go or go out and even get out of here.

No smoking in front of elders

 in Corea, one should never smoke in front of an elder person, even if the older person is smoking; it is considered rude.

 Many Americans who are prone to do so without being aware that their action can give offese to Koreans in certain settings.

Chewing Gum

 It is common for Americans to chew gum in social situations: while conversing, playing sports, or even teaching.

 To Koreans, however, it appears quite rude when they chew gum while talking, not that Koreans do not chew gum; it is just that they generally do so much more discreetly.

Shake hands too firmly

 American men often shake hands firmly as a sign of confidence, sincerity or friendship. At the very least, they expect some pressure in the grip of their couterparts.

 A traditonal Korean greeting is accomplished with a bow, rather than a handshake. Americans should be careful not to be overzealous in shaking hands with Koreans.

Men's shaking hands too long or limply

 Between men, a handshake that lasts too long may make an American feel uncomfortable while it is acceptable. Americans are taught a firm, but brief handshake indicates sincerity and self-confidence, while a limp handshake gives the opposite impression. On the other hand, Americans do not consider a long or limp shandshake from a woman to be negative.

Keep hands in pocket while speaking

 This casual posture is common among Americans. It indicates a feelig of being at ease.

 For Koreans, on the other hand, especially for older people, it may appear as if the other person is being disrespectful, isn't really listening or doesn't care what the speaker is saying.

Use one hand when giving or receiving something

 Americans usually use one hand when giving or receiving something. in Corea, young people show respect for an elder by using two hands to give or receive. A somewhat lesser degree of respect is sometimes appropriate and is expressed by extending one hand to give or receive something while the free hand is either tucked under the extended arm or grips the extended wrist. To simply extend one hand to elders while the other hand is free is engaged in another activity is considered rude in Corea.