Then eventually I was reminded that time as a concept isn’t as strictly defined here, and being late is socially accepted due to the city being congested and getting around is just different in general. So instead of telling people off or locking the door, I usually give people benefit of doubts for couple times. And empathy usually goes a longer way. I trust the students have enough wisdom to learn from it, and decide if they gonna plan to arrive earlier next time.

Very true: The traffic conditions in Bangkok are very much different from Hong Kong.

Very similar thought here - I was also strict to myself , as a teacher and also as a student. When I started practicing in London, I was so annoyed by other latecomers ; and also because of the traffic and unexpected delays of trains, I actually also skipped class just because I didn’t want to go in 5 or 10 min late. Being punctual is good and make yourself ready physically and emotionally for the class ; and at the same time , why fuss about other late comers when you should be focusing yoursel