Minwoo : In an argument between Koreans, you never fail to hear “How old are you?” It is because, in an extreme conflict like argument, age is very important point to decidewho is superior. One of my friend who looks very much younger than himself, revealed his age when he was embroiled in an argument and asked how old he was. The opponent who was actually ten years younger than my friend, immediately apologized and suggested reconciliation. Not only in arguing situations but in first time meetings, Koreans often ask you how old you are. That’s because how old he or she is most important to decide social superiority, along with his/her social position. They need to know the age first to decide whether to use polite language or not, and how to respond to the other.