Everything Korea Office Chat: The Savvy Insider

In a business inquiry this week, a company asked if I could assist with better understanding their Korean client. They wanted in general terms — an “insider” — some who knew current details on client’s internal corporate culture, and the ways of their thinking.

This most often does require a savvy insider ( and not just someone employed by the company) — as beyond core values common within Korean companies, many norms do vary lots. And, without recognizing and being able to point out the nuances it easy to assume “one size fit all.”

I’d add a trusted insider in the broader sense is someone well connected, and well versed in related business areas — both globally as well as Korea. They can reach out and tap when needed to others in the know, too.

To better define an insider, I was once reminded that staying current and relevant is critical. It also can mean that someone out of a sector for as little as 6 months may be seen as having lost touch. In fast paced sectors like Autonomous, Mobility, and AI, that timeline can be cut to as little as 3 months.

All said, I am very fortunate as my DNA has always been to be open-minded to trends and new advancements from not only within a specific industry but also in adjacent businesses. This means keeping a finger on the pulse and constantly being…