FACULTY OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

UiTM PUNCAK ALAM

BACHELOR’S IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (HONS)

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
(BA246)

SUBJECT: INTERCULTURAL MANAGEMENT (IBM 536)

CLASS: BA246 3A

PREPARED BY: MUHAMMAD HASBULLAH BIN MOHD HAPIZON

PREPARED FOR: SIR SHAMSUL BAHARIN

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First of all, I want to be honest that this assignment took me almost one week to finish it.
It was quite tough for me to start, considering of many assignments from different subjects that
I need to catch up from the due date. I have tried my best to manage and reschedule my
timetable many times to keep my progress on track. This assignment is quite interesting for me
because I need to share my story for attending an event. I can write this report with
enjoyments. If compared to another assignment, it is more stressful.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the individuals and organizations who
have contributed to the completion of this report. Your support, guidance, and encouragement
have been invaluable throughout my writing process.

I extend my deepest appreciation to my family members and friends first and foremost,
for their support and engagement. Their expertise and insight greatly enriched the content of
this report.
Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................... 1
2.0 STORY ABOUT THE EVENT .................................................................................................................... 2
3.0 REFLECTION .......................................................................................................................................... 4
4.0 CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................................................ 5
5.0 REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................................... 6
6.0 APPENDICES .......................................................................................................................................... 7
1.0 INTRODUCTION

In the ever-expanding global village, where borders blur and international interactions
flourish, understanding the intricacies of cultural dynamics is not just a professional asset but a
fundamental necessity. This reflective essay embarks on a journey of introspection, exploring
personal experiences through the illuminating framework of Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions.
Developed by Geert Hofstede, this paradigm identifies and measures cultural variations in six
key dimensions: Power Distance, Individualism vs. Collectivism, Masculinity vs. Femininity,
Uncertainty Avoidance, Long-Term vs. Short-Term Orientation, and Indulgence vs. Restraint.

As we delve into moments of cross-cultural engagement, this essay aims to unpack the
multifaceted layers of cultural influence on perceptions, behaviors, and communication styles.
By navigating personal encounters with the theoretical backdrop provided by Hofstede's
framework, the reflection seeks to elucidate how cultural dimensions play a role in shaping our
responses and interpretations. Through this exploration, the essay endeavors not only to offer a
glimpse into personal growth but also to contribute to the broader conversation on the
significance of cultural awareness in our interconnected world.

On this occasion, I will share my story throughout attending a cultural event, Korea Travel
Fest. Join me in this reflective journey where the tapestry of personal experiences is woven with
the threads of academic theory, unraveling the profound impact of cultural dimensions on our
understanding of the world around us.

1
2.0 STORY ABOUT THE EVENT

It was early in the morning. At 8:00 a.m. On a Sunday, I woke up in shock thought I was
late to attend the event. Apparently, it is still early for me to make my way to shower. To be
honest, the night before, I and roommate just makes our daily routine on weekends to watch
Action Movies. Unfortunately, we sleep at 3. But I still manage to wake up early. That’s the
achievement for me even though it only sometimes. After takes so much time preparing what is
important and what to bring to the event, Finally I just bring a bag that can be said to be almost
empty and phone. There are four of us. We have been roommates since semester two which is
Syazwan, and Syed. We are going to KLCC by car. Syed is a driver while I am the navigator.
Syazwan and Faris can be considered as free riders. Before we make our way to KLCC, we need
to meet another classmate that we have consent together three days before the event. After all of
us had arrived, we made our way to KLCC. It took about 40 minutes to arrive. The funny thing is
that we do not know the exact places the event occurred. After searching for about 30 minutes,
we finally managed to find the event. It is huge and mesmerizing. Faris is ready to spend all of
their money here. While Syazwan who had never got to KLCC looked stunned. Syed as always
with his blurry face all the time. The anticipation was palpable as I and them gathered before
embarking on our grand adventure. We looked like a squad of misfits. With our simple fashion
likely going to the night market, ready to embarrass ourselves in the event. Before we explore the
event, we promise to get along. We started our journey at the first booth to try one of the
traditional clothes in Korea, Hanbok. As we approached the Hanbok rental booth, we couldn't
contain our laughter. I accidentally choose women Hanbok to wear, but anyway I look adorable.
There was a Korean female insisting Syed and Syazwan wearing Hanbok, but Faris manage to
wear it earlier. Syed struggling to wear because it is a little tight at leg. “chingu”! Sayed the
Korean female, asking me to help my friend. Then, I and Faris helping Syed and Syazwan. The
dressing room echoed with laughter as we tried to decipher the intricate layers and delicate ties.
We felt like solving a Rubik's Cube blindfolded.

2
 Then, we continued our journey. The irresistible aroma of Ramen filled the air as Faris
and Syed started to find out where does it came from. Without thinking twice, I ordered two
Ramen to shared 4 of us. Faris, eager to embrace spice, insisted on ordering the "Fire-Breathing
Dragon Ramen," convinced it would ignite a culinary adventure. “Are you sure you can eat it
all?”, asked Syed. Syed as always likes to condemn Faris decisions. Amidst the friendly banter, I
found myself drawn to the "Jjajangmyeon Ramen," a fusion of savory black bean sauce and
chewy noodles that promised a delightful umami experience. With our ramen preferences
established, we approached the Ajumma with a mix of excitement and hunger. As we are waiting
for Ramen, we enjoy watching the chef preparing meals for others. The Chef asks his waiters to
pick that, and this. The waiters obeyed the instructions very well. Then The Chef ask his assistant
to bowl our Ramen with caution and prepared for us even the assistant is busy with another
customer.

However, we need to eat using chopsticks that have been prepared for us. Somehow, the
Korean Lady waiter came to sit with us and taught us how to use chopsticks. “gat-i meogja!”.
Sayed the lady that means let’s eat together. We faced the next hurdle, chopstick warfare.
Confidently wielding the thin wooden sticks, we tried to emulate the graceful maneuvers we had
seen in countless K-dramas. Reality, however, had different plans. Anyway, Syazwan can’t figure
out how to use it. We laugh hardly because Syazwan usually used to eat with hand. Faris
demeaning Syazwan, I am arguing with Syed about their attitude. The Lady teaches everyone of
us with polite and full of Korean customs and etiquette to be followed. We cannot eat
haphazardly and cannot make Ramen Soup spilled to our clothes. It means that we are eating in a
rush and do not respect the food. In fact, Koreans often enjoy meals at slower pace, savoring
each bite. After exploring many booths and doing so many activities, we definitely get tired. We
stop our exploration at 6 p.m. After Asar prayer, we cannot think we are going to make our way
exploring the event anymore. We are very exhausted. The moon hung low in the night sky,
casting a serene glow over Kuala Lumpur as my friends and I, exhausted yet exhilarated, made
our way back to college after a day of immersing ourselves in the Korean Culture Event at
KLCC. The energy that had fueled our day now waned, replaced by a satisfying weariness that
whispered of a day well-spent. As we settled into the car, the hum of the engine accompanied by
the distant echoes of K-pop beats, the atmosphere inside was a mix of contentment and fatigue.

3
3.0 REFLECTION

On our journey at this event, I explored vibrant booths and engaged with diverse aspects
of Korean culture. I learned a lot in this event. We are living in such a amazing world with
diverse and different cultures. Sometimes I think, what if our world only has a single culture that
is practiced around the world? It will be boring and strange. I’m grateful to learn and understand
a new culture and maybe I can practice when I travel to Korea one day. I can relate and reflect on
the activities in this event through the lens of Hofstede Dimensions of Culture. It will be three of
its which are Collectivism, Power Distance, and Uncertainty Avoidance.

Collectivism is a cultural characteristic that emphasizes the interconnectedness and

interdependence of individuals within a society, prioritizing group harmony and cohesiveness
over individual interests. In the event, I can relate the Collectivism applied with teamwork and
collaboration between me and Faris helping Syazwan and Syed to wear Hanbok. There was a
Korean female insisting Syed and Syazwan wearing Hanbok. The Korean Lady sayed “chingu”!
asking me and Faris to help my friend. In the context of Collectivism, Korean practiced
Interdependence in Relationship.

Korean exhibits characteristics of a high-power distance culture, indicating a societal

preference for hierarchical structures, respect for authority, and a more formal communication
style. In the event, I can relate the High Power-Distance been applied when the Chef asked his
waiter to pick that and this. Without any delay, the waiter blindly obeyed the instructions. Other
than that, The Chef also asked his assistant to bowl Ramen for us even she is busy with another
customer. It showed that Korean showing respect to those in authority. Age, position, and status
are significant determinants of authority, and individuals are expected to defer to those in higher
positions.

Uncertainty Avoidance is a cultural dimension that refers to the extent to which

individuals within a society feel threatened by ambiguity, uncertainty, and situations. Korean, in
terms of uncertainty avoidance, tends to display characteristics of a culture that prefers more
certainty, structure, and clear guidelines in various aspects of life. In the event, I can relate
Uncertainty Avoidance applied when The Lady teaches everyone of us with polite and full of
Korean customs and etiquette to be followed. Korean culture values clear rules and guidelines in

4
both social and professional settings. There is a tendency to establish and adhere to structured
routines, whether in the workplace, schools, or daily life, to reduce uncertainty.

4.0 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Korean culture is characterized by high power distance, uncertainty

avoidance, collectivism, shaping the societal norms, interpersonal dynamics, and organizational
structures. These cultural dimensions play a significant role in influencing the way individuals
interact, make decisions, and navigate various aspects of life in South Korea. For High-Power
Distance, Korean society places a strong emphasis on respecting authority and adhering to
hierarchical structures. Age, seniority, and social status are crucial determinants of authority,
influencing communication styles, decision-making processes, and social interactions. The
cultural value of showing deference to those in higher positions permeates various aspects of life,
from the family unit to the workplace. For Uncertainty Avoidance, Koreans often seek stability
and predictability, and there is a tendency to avoid ambiguity and unfamiliar situations. The
educational system, career choices, and societal expectations reflect a desire for clear guidelines
to navigate life's complexities. For Collectivism, Korean culture, emphasizing the importance of
group harmony, social cohesion, and interconnectedness. Family bonds are strong, and there is a
sense of duty towards the collective well-being. In workplaces, collaboration and teamwork are
valued, and decisions often consider the impact on the group.

5
5.0 REFERENCES

Bernama. (2023, October 3). New Straits Times. Retrieved from 2023 Korea Travel Fest to showcase

South Korean K-Culture in Kuala Lumpur:

https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/jom/2023/10/962449/2023-korea-travel-fest-showcase-

south-korean-k-culture-kuala-lumpur

Onafo. (2023, October). Embarking on a Cultural Odyssey: Korea Travel Fest 2023. Retrieved from AFO

RADIO: https://www.onafo.my/events/embarking-on-a-cultural-odyssey-korea-travel-fest-2023

Panda, I. (2023, October 30). Ivy Panda Free Esays. Retrieved from Hofstede: South Korea Analysis Essay:

https://ivypanda.com/essays/hofstede-south-korea-analysis/

ChatGPT questions:

• Describe Korean Uncertainty Avoidance.

• Elaborate Power Distance of Korean.
• Elaborate Collectivism of Korean.
• Is Korean high-power distance or low power distance?

6
6.0 APPENDICES

7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16