Giving gifts

Why

Gifts smooth relationships, but some items and numbers carry meanings you'll want to avoid.

Do

• Give with both hands; fruit, quality snacks or gift sets are safe choices.
• Expect the gift may be opened later, not in front of you.

Avoid

• Avoid sets of four — 4 (사) sounds like the word for death.
• Avoid shoes for a partner — there's a saying they'll walk away.

Useful sentence

작은 거지만 받아 주세요.jageun geojiman bada juseyo.It's just something small, but please accept it.

These are general customs; people, generations and situations vary — kindness covers most mistakes.