Having lived in both countries (Asia and the US now). I do see the difference in parenting styles. In Asia- parents don't try to your 'friend'. Parents are parents, period. Also for many (all good) rules that my parents imposed- they gave me one good reason: They're the parents and I'm the kid. I noticed from my friends in the US, sometimes when they tell their kids not to do (or to do) something, they have to 'justify' their actions to their kids. I would say it would be much easier to implement the rules to the kids when they're younger rather than when they are 17 years old.

I am only in my early 30s and just offering my .02 cents.

Hope everything works Zuki.
KN