How Not To Be K.Y
A mini booklet about the most important lesson I learned growing up Japanese and being able to study abroad in Japan: Don't be K.Y (standing for "kuuki yomenai), which literally translates to "not being able to read the air." This booklet consists of a few scenarios with illustrations to show you an example of what NOT to do if you're ever in Japan.
What is "K.Y"?
K.Y is a term unique to Japanese culture that is used to describe people who are unaware of their surroundings and act without considering the atmosphere and air of the room. The term is a bi-product from the indirect style of communication, where people speak indirectly and the other has to read between the lines to understand what their words' true intentions are.
Here's Paul, a character I created that's very K.Y. He makes other people feel uncomfortable. Follow along with Paul and learn how not to be K.Y like him!
Scenario: Tea For Me Please!
In Japan, when everybody goes out to drink, it's important that you all order the same thing for your first drink. The mood is much more vibrant if everyone cheers to the same drink. Here's Paul and his group of friends. They all go out to drink after finals. While everybody ordered beer, Paul ordered hot tea. So, he ended up doing cheers with hot tea. Please, don't be like Paul and just order a beer.
Scenario: Sharing is Caring
Paul and his table mate are about to take an exam. The girl realizes she forgot to bring her pencil case and has nothing to write with for her exam. She looks over at Paul and he notices that she doesn't have a pencil, yet he still doesn't offer to let her borrow a pencil. Please, don't be like Paul and offer her a pencil.
