Bow Hard: Formal settings can include meeting future parents in law, your child’s teacher, or even a blind date. The more serious the meeting (i.e. important business meeting, meeting future in-laws for the first time), the more respect should be shown. And in Korea, respect is all in the bow. Don’t give one of those casual nodding style bows you give to the convenience store lady. Make sure your bow is serving its purpose and that you’re putting in the effort (note: effort levels are often noticeable in bows).
Tip: Handshakes also commonly accompany bows. However, it’s more common for Korean men to offer a handshake than women.