Use of Nonverbal Communication in U.S and Korea

According to Professor Albert Mehrabian,a Psychology professor of the University of California, people use 55% of nonverbal communication methods in conversation whereas they only use 7% of verbal one. From his research, it is revealed that nonverbal communication is used widely during conversation. People in Korea and USA use similar nonverbal communications, however they have different meanings.

Koreans do not stare at people’s eyes during conversation. They usually look down especially when they talk to older people or their boss. It is a culture based gesture that they look down to show they are agreeing with or to show of their respectfulness. It is a sign of being rude if someone stare or maintain eye contact. On the other hand, it is a sign of no confidence or unfaithfulness if someone looks down in conversation in U.S. For example, students in U.S. make eye contact talking to professors. It is a meaning of confidence and respect. Otherwise in Korea, professor may think that it is very rude attitude if students make eye contact all the time during conversation.

Americans seem to exaggerate or overreact when they talk. Americans use hand and leg gestures to imitate things that they want to explain. In fact, it is more helpful for listeners to understand. However, in Korea, people may think it is very frivolous if people use too many gestures. Korean tries to explain in verbal way because it can be a symbol of high education and also, there are more expressions for sounds, smell, colors than that of English.

There are similarities between Korea and U.S. in body space. Since Korea is very small and dense, people are less likely to care about personal space than American. But if people talk in very close distance, it would be unpleasant or uncomfortable in Korea too. Koreans usually maintain about 3~4 meters when they talk.