Do Vietnamese People Bow?

Vietnamese business culture.

I've noticed an increasing number of articles and blogs claiming that Vietnamese people practice bowing, especially in professional settings. This amuses me in a sad way. Firstly, it's important to clarify that bowing isn't a common practice in our culture. The only times I've ever bowed were to pay my respects to the spirits of my late grandmother and father at their funerals.

Since Vietnam opens up to the world, foreign companies, especially from Asian countries like Japan, China, and South Korea, have been flocking here for opportunities. The Japanese, in particular, have had a profound impact on the Vietnamese business landscape, given their well-established professionalism, strong work ethic, and trustworthy demeanor. This influence is evident in the numerous Japanese-friendly neighborhood, shops and restaurants that can be found throughout Vietnam. Moreover, a significant number of Vietnamese individuals are learning Japanese as a second language.

Given the substantial Japanese community and the broad connections between the two countries, it's hardly shocking that some Vietnamese might find themselves involuntarily dipping into a bow – that ever-so-Japanese gesture , out of habit. The constant exposure to Japanese culture has naturally led to cross-cultural influences. However, it's essential to clarify that among Vietnamese people themselves, bowing is not a customary greeting. Our traditional Vietnamese greetings, rooted in our rich culture and heritage, are distinct from the bowing gesture.