#6 Karaoke

click here for #5 - too much food

karaoke is very essential to asian social interactions. this phenomenon began as a sing-along trend for amateur singers in US during the 70's, and migrated over to japan then rest of the asia continent... it basically took over asian social life overnight.

asians typically sing karaoke @ bars/clubs called KTV, where there are two options: private room or public stage. either way, there will always be a screen of some sort displaying the lyrics for the singer while he/she sing along to the melody. At most korean karaoke places, a tambourine is usually supplied so the singer can wave it around while singing.

asians always gather in big groups while singing karaoke, and it is very entertaining to see a group of asians singing in druken stupor. although the karaoke experience can be quite torturesome at times, depending on the vocal ability of the "singer". asians are known to be a species dominated by introvert and shy individuals, but one would certainly change his/her mind after a night out at a KTV.

in recent years, the older generation of asians have installed home entertainment systems that enable them to sing karaoke in the comfort of their own houses. however, the younger generation of asians still like to socialize at KTV (usually located in and around chinatowns) for gatherings and parties.

although you do not have to sing when you go to a KTV, most of the times by the end of the night you will be on the table screaming "hit me baby one more time" under the influence of alcohol while your friends take black-mail worthy pictures of you.