Relationships in Korea
In Korea, children are brought up to respect others' feelings and to do everything to avoid upsetting friends.  Koreans feel that "the wise man is ... one who can make things appear in such a way that all feel at peace, comfortable and secure".  People in Korea avoid giving each other bad news in the morning and instead postpone it until the end of the day, the end of the week, or preferably forever.  They want to maintain harmony. 

Moreover, greatly influenced by the ancient philosopher Confucius, the Koreans have a deep respect for their elders, including parents, teachers, and even school friends who are a year older than themselves.
 
Email Exchange between Classrooms
Questions from the student of Nagano Nishi High School in Japan;

I read Korean people's ways of thinking in the English side read, "Annyon Korea".  According to that book, you respect elderly people so much and don't smoke or drink in front of them.  Is it true?  Please tell me how you respect elders.
 
Answer by a student at Namju High School in Korea;

In Korea, in front of seniors, polite Koreans don't smoke. But these days some rude high school students or young people smoke in front of the old. Old people don't like those rude young people.
How about in your country?
Answer by a student of Nagano Nishi High School in Japan;

n Japan most people often respect elderly people, but people don't care smoke or drink sake (alcohol) even if they sit just in front of them.  I was very surprised to know the difference.