There is a contradiction at the heart of Korean communication patterns which is that, like the Japanese, Koreans want to preserve harmony and promote good relations but at the same time they have a tendency to become emotional if they feel that things are not going their way.
Generally speaking, Koreans regard saying 'no' as poor etiquette and something to be avoided at all costs. It can, therefore, be difficult to get at the truth of their intentions. Unhappiness and disagreement will usually be voiced very vaguely through the use of such phrases as ' we will try' or that might be difficult but we will explore the idea.' Nor does 'yes' necessarily mean 'yes'. It might simply mean 'I have heard you' or 'I recognise that you have made a point.' Due to this vagueness of meaning, it is very often necessary to go over the same point many times, trying to extricate more meaning as time progresses. This obviously has the effect of making meetings longer and can be somewhat frustrating. It is important to maintain patience and politeness at all times.