I think a lot of cultures have this inverted side, like how Japan is both serious/stoic, yet has silly media culture. Grow up in an authoritarian shadow and they kind of enjoy breaking unwritten rules.

I've had some similar experiences in Saudi Arabia. People are very friendly, but at the same time very aggressive. They'll corner you, block your way, and shout in your face like a drill sergeant, but it's all playful. They won't touch you and they mean no harm.