Crazy and Unique Things About Men in Asian Culture
Asian culture has a variety of fascinating and sometimes quirky perspectives when it comes to men, their
roles, and societal expectations. Here are some of the most interesting and unique aspects of men in
Asia:
1. Beauty Standards and Grooming – In many Asian countries, men take grooming very seriously.
South Korea, for example, has one of the highest rates of male cosmetic surgery, with
procedures like double eyelid surgery and jawline contouring being popular. Skincare routines
among men are also common, with products like BB cream and face masks being everyday
essentials.
2. K-Pop Influence on Fashion – Thanks to the Hallyu wave, many young men in Asia, especially in
South Korea, Japan, and China, embrace K-pop-inspired fashion, which includes colorful outfits,
earrings, and even makeup. The concept of ‘soft masculinity’ is widely accepted, challenging
traditional gender norms.
3. Pressure to Be the Breadwinner – Despite modern shifts in gender roles, many Asian societies
still expect men to be the primary providers. In places like China and India, a man’s ability to buy
property and provide financial stability is often a key factor in marriage considerations.
4. Respect and Hierarchy – Asian cultures place a strong emphasis on hierarchy and respect. In
Japan, men are expected to bow as a sign of politeness, and in the Philippines, addressing elders
with ‘po’ and ‘opo’ shows deference. The idea of maintaining a strong, respectable image in
public is highly valued.
5. Love for ‘Macho’ Activities – While some Asian men embrace softer fashion trends, traditional
masculinity is still strong in many regions. Sports like sumo wrestling in Japan, Muay Thai in
Thailand, and Silat in Indonesia are considered masculine pursuits. In countries like the
Philippines, men take pride in skills like cockfighting and riding motorcycles.
6. Romantic Gestures and Love Culture – Men in Asia often go the extra mile in relationships. In
South Korea, couples celebrate multiple anniversaries, such as ‘100 Days of Dating,’ and men are
expected to plan elaborate surprises. In Japan, it is customary for men to return gifts three times
the value of what they received on White Day.
7. Arranged Marriages and Parental Approval – In many Asian cultures, marriage is not just
between two people but between families. In India, China, and even traditional Filipino
households, parents have a significant say in their son’s choice of a spouse. Some men even
participate in matchmaking events where potential brides are introduced based on family status.
8. The ‘Mama’s Boy’ Stereotype – Many Asian men have strong ties to their mothers, often living
with their parents well into adulthood. In some cultures, such as in China and South Korea, this is
seen as a sign of filial piety, but it can also lead to the ‘mama’s boy’ stereotype, where men rely
on their mothers for major decisions.
9. Love for Tech and Gaming – Many Asian men are passionate about technology, from Japan’s
anime and gaming culture to South Korea’s e-sports scene. Professional gaming is a respected
career in countries like China, South Korea, and the Philippines, where male gamers achieve
celebrity status.
10. Obsession with Work and ‘Salaryman’ Life – In Japan and South Korea, the ‘salaryman’ lifestyle
dominates male culture. Long work hours, strict corporate hierarchies, and after-work drinking
sessions are common. While this dedication to work is respected, it has also led to concerns
about work-life balance and mental health issues.
Asian men balance tradition and modernity in unique ways, making their cultural practices both
intriguing and diverse. Their evolving roles in society continue to shape new definitions of masculinity
across the continent.
