Koreans are believed to be descendants of several Mongol tribes that migrated onto the Korean Peninsula from Central Asia. They share one ethnic family and one language. Korea is a modern and dynamic country. Its highly educated society ensures a high standard of living conditions and a share of the best from western society combined with traditional Korean ideas and Asian culture.

In the postwar period, Korea was freed from Japanese rule, but the country was soon divided into two separate states, North and South, strongly opposed to each other. Since the end of the Korean War the Korean Peninsula has been governed by the Republic of Korea in the South and the Democratic People's Republic in the North.

Today religious freedom is guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of Korea. Of the 300 or so registered religions, the once dominant Buddhism and Confucianism have shaped both the way of life and the attitudes of Koreans, but it is Christianity that has subsequently developed a vast following since its introduction in the late 18th century, building Korea into a primarily Catholic nation.

In Korea given names are usually two characters, almost always hyphenated in romanization, leaving only a few hyphenated last names. Generally the single character name is the surname and the hyphenated one is the given name. An individual's place in the social or family hierarchy is reinforced by their respective titles. For example, brothers and sisters call each other by different names depending on their sex and rank in the family, whilst maternal aunts and uncles have different titles from paternal ones.

Koreans care greatly about education and illiteracy is almost non-existent. This desire to learn originates in the age-old principles of scholarly Confucianism; consequently great value is placed on a college education, which is the most important factor in deciding one's career. Another reason for high literacy rates is the fact that parents will do anything to ensure their children's success and happiness. Korean parents are happy to invest in private academies (Hagwons) to enhance a government school education.

Children begin their education at the age of six. They attend elementary school for six years, middle school for three years and then high school for three years. Students may then attend university for four years followed by graduate schools. The system also includes two year junior college courses and nursery schools.

Korea is an easygoing country but, like many, it has its own social norms. When doing business with Koreans there are rules that should be followed to avoid committing any blunders, all the while keeping in mind what to do to make a working relationship more productive. Here are a few tips.

	Respect for elders is very important for Koreans. If your business counterpart is older than you, avoid smoking or crossing your legs in front of him (or her).
	When engaged in conversation, lengthy direct eye contact could be thought to be rude.
	When greeting someone, shake hands and bow slightly.
	Do not refer to a person by their given name unless specifically invited to. Use their official work or marital title. At work, people usually go by their surname and their work title. For example: President Chang (Chang Sajangnim), Director Kim (Kim Wonjangnim), etc.

	When food is offered take at least a small amount, since refusing food or drink can be a problem. When a guest leaves food uneaten, Koreans think that it is their fault.
	You'll score lots of points if you eat kimchi and other Korean foods with relish.