This deference to the chain of command resulted in several Korean Air Lines crashes ~15 years ago. As most of KAL’s pilots came up through the military, KAL identified the problem but was unable to wash it out of them.
In desperation, KAL brought in some round-eye pilots and safety men who did succeed in changing this mind set. KAL has since enjoyed a much improved safety record
Actually KAL has worst record, second from Aeroplot. Now that there’s 2nd nation’s international airline it will share the same pilot-in-command “supremo-macho” mindset.