does anyone know about Korean culture?

[margonbread]

We have a new child at school who doesn't speak English, every night when Grandma picks her up she makes the little girl bow to us.
Do you know if we ought we to do something back?
We don't want to offend by doing the wrong thing.

Thank you

You can just answer "Anyung" (like saying bye instead of goodbye).

You can give an equivalent bow to the girl, and a slightly lower one to the Grandmother.

Oh sorry - I thought you were talking only to the little girl. Yes, it would be rude to be so familiar with the granny. Anyung would be OK for the girl, anyunghasayo to the granny.

DS's best friend is half Korean.
He's just as rowdy as any other 5 year old when he is in my house but the mummy and granny are awfully well mannered.
They are absolutely lovely! Always a kind word and compliments for other children even when not entirely deserved!
They are always immaculate and come bearing little gifts, be it just a few oranges or fresh of strawberries. Very delicate and measured in every way.
If we appreciate something in their house, she will always cook extra for us to bring home and share with other family members.

Bowing is the norm to greet elders but am sure they will not mind a "faux pas" as long as the children just have the courtesy to greet politely in their normal manner.

Generally the attitude is that children are royalty and no expense is spared to accommodate them.

Maybe organising a playdate AND inviting the mummy/granny along for tea would be very much appreciated and a nice welcoming gesture?
I think maybe sometimes OTT in this respect

I meant OTT IRO children being the centre of their universe.

sorry- i should have been clearer---i teach this little girl. neither her nor granny speak ANY English; so I guess when she tells the little girl to bow it is saying thank you.

i will try Anyung
ta

we have 16 children and 12 languages, they are all new to English.

i just wanted to get the bowing bit right. i have done a kinda mini-bow back and granny seems very happy.