World / cultural diplomacy What Not To Do in Foreign Lands Tabloid offers how-to guide for provoking international incidents By Paul Stinson, Newser User Posted Dec 17, 2008 6:56 PM CST Copied A Toyota senior manager, left, exchanges his name card with a visitor. To immediately stuff a received business card into one's back pocket would be the height of insult in Japan. (AP Photo) Taking its cue from the infamous shoe-toss of an Iraqi journalist—a sign of high contempt in his culture—the Daily Mirror presents a how-to guide for provoking international incidents: Buddhist countries: Nothing raises eyebrows or ire more than a pat on the head, as that's where locals believe the seat of the soul is located. Russia: Flash your hosts the "OK" sign to give an insult with a sexual undertone. Japan: After receiving someone’s business card, immediately fling it onto your desk. Korea: Smile at a stranger and show your contempt for his lack of intelligence. Argentina: Arrive punctually for a dinner date to clearly express your level of greed. For the rest, click below. (More cultural diplomacy stories.) Report an error