I agree that who you are = work is a universal concept. I also think that there are nuances in which this is manifested across societies, especially collectivistic ones.

I think in Japan, loyalty to the group plays a huge part. You may want to have some personal space outside your work, but you are unlikely to decline a weeknight round of drinks or a weekend golf gathering, out of deference to your boss and seniors. In Singapore, we draw the line between work and life more strictly.