[fi358]

In Finland we sometimes ask how are you, especially if we know the person. However, it is usually meant to be a real question and not just empty phrase where "fine" is regarded as the only correct answer.

[seba_dos1]

I'm so glad that recently on an interview with a foreign company, when I got asked "how are you?" at the beginning, it felt strange enough to remind me "just say 'fine' and be done with it" :D

[moltar]

Yes, exactly the same for Russians. We do ask too, but genuinely and usually only our close friends and family.