In Asia, you are expected to act "drunk" when you are drinking with your colleagues/boss. You aren't expected to actually get that drunk, though you can if you want. The higher your station, the less drunk you'll want to really get because you may have to take an important call.
In Canada, people drink socially, and a smaller number drink alone (much like anywhere else). If someone doesn't want to drink at a dinner or outing, everyone else respects their choice not to drink and doesn't press them. Waiting to drink depends on the social context.
> In Asia, you are expected to act "drunk" when you are drinking with your colleagues/boss. You aren't expected to actually get that drunk, though you can if you want.
Not true in South Korea. They'll have drinking games and challenges you'd be expected to participate in.
> The higher your station, the less drunk you'll want to really get because you may have to take an important call.
Well, it's the boss who makes everyone go out to drink, so if he doesn't want to do it, it doesn't happen.
> In Asia, you are expected to act "drunk" when you are drinking with your colleagues/boss. You aren't expected to actually get that drunk, though you can if you want
Comming from a culture that doesn't accept fake-drinking I must ask: what's the point of it? Is there any cultural background explanation?
It's just part of the social ritual. You get "drunk" so that everyone can unwind because the normal social rules no longer apply. You can even call your boss a jerk and all will be forgotten tomorrow.
I'm pretty sure I've read stories about korean, japanese dying on the road after a meeting. Also stories about people throwing up at meetings, but it is seen as a good thing because they show they're trying their best.
In Canada, people drink socially, and a smaller number drink alone (much like anywhere else). If someone doesn't want to drink at a dinner or outing, everyone else respects their choice not to drink and doesn't press them. Waiting to drink depends on the social context.