From K-barbecue to K-Pop and K-dramas, South Korean culture has warmed its way into the hearts of many. The Korean wave has swept the world and ignited an interest in the East Asian country. The “Land of the Morning Calm” is equally known for its beauty trends and the population’s love for physical enhancements.

Diving deeper into the nation’s culture and traditions, a South Korean is one year old at birth. One school of thought suggests that since they already spent nine months in the womb, it’s close enough to one year, hence the addition to their age. Here are other 44 fascinating facts about South Korea that you probably didn’t know.

With Decreasing Enrollment Rates, South Korean Schools Opened Their Doors to Elderly Learners

South Korea has experienced plummeting birth rates since 2015, and rural schools are finding it increasingly difficult to fill classrooms. Several learning institutions found a solution by opening their doors to elderly learners. Specifically, these campuses decided to enroll illiterate grandmothers willing to learn how to read and write.

On the extreme left, Hwang Wol-geum is one of the elderly learners who started attending Daegu Elementary in Gangjin County. Her grandkids are some of her schoolmates, and according to the New York Times, the need to learn how to write letters to her children motivated her to return to school.

The South Korean Government Sent Thoughtful Care Packages to People in Quarantine

Most people are still coming to terms with everything that happened in 2020, from wearing masks to nationwide lockdowns and quarantines. South Korea was among the countries that successfully flattened the curve quite early. Still, those who fell ill were expected to self-isolate as one of the layered approaches to protect the citizens.
An internet user shared this image explaining it’s a care package they received from the South Korean government while in quarantine. The translated letter explains that the environment-friendly health package is meant to offer the recipient an energy boost to go about their day. It also wishes those who are not in good health a quick recovery.

A Street at Jeju City During Cherry Blossom Season

Cherry blossom trees create a beautiful pink explosion along a street in Jeju City, Jeju Island. Spotting the delicately beautiful blooms signals the end of winter as spring sets in. The King Cherry Tree, found all around Korea, originated from Jeju Island, and during spring, that is where the flowers bloom first.

The region experiences a markedly warmer climate, and the Seogwipo downtown area is one of the best places to experience the flowering trees in their full glory. Other popular cherry blossom viewing sites include the Seokchon Lake in eastern Seoul, Hwagae at the foothills of Jiri Mountain, and Nami Island, which is a favorite among K-drama fans.

Korean KTXTrains  Broadcasts Five Minutes of Puppy Videos

The Korean Train eXpress, better known as the KTX, is a high-speed rail system running from Seoul to Busan. Construction of the transit system started in 1992, and operations officially started in 2004. The daily ridership number, since its launch, averages 70K meaning that scores of people use the transit system.

A netizen shared this photo explaining that the KTX trains have a unique approach to entertaining passengers. They broadcast “healing” videos for about five minutes showing newborn puppies rolling around and simply being adorable little creatures. It must be a calming sight to watch at any time during the daily commute.

Seoul Airports Print Maps to Travelers' Gates at the Back of Tickets

Most airports feel like labyrinths designed to make it hard to get to different gates. Thinking about it could be a conspiracy to make you miss your flight so that the airline can charge you for a new ticket. That is not the case at Seoul Airports because they provide a map to help travelers navigate the facilities.

Even better, the map is printed on the back of boarding passes so that you always have it at hand. It is a great idea and quite a simple way to help travelers get around the airport. Perhaps this should be a standard for all airlines.

The Same Spot, Through South Korea's Four Seasons

South Korea earned its nickname, “Land of the morning calm,” from the word “Choson.” It describes the last Korean Kingdom, and “Cho” refers to morning while “son” means light. Bright morning conjures up the image of the sun hovering over the rice fields with an air of tranquility.

South Korea experiences four distinct seasons, and someone captured how one spot looks at different times of the year. Each photo tells the time of the year, from spring and summer to autumn and winter. Spring starts in march, and summer begins in June. In September, autumn sets in, while winter starts in December.

This Tree Weathered a Year of Typhoons And Landslides in South Korea

The Korean Peninsula has a history of devastating typhoons, as a result of tropical cyclones, originating from the Northwest Pacific basin, making landfall between May and October. In recent years, Typhoon Hinnamnor struck in September 2022, making it the eleventh powerful tropical cyclone to make landfall in South Korea.

Referred to as Super Typhoon Henry in the Philippines, Hinnamnor grounded 50 sea routes and 70 vessels. Sadly, the tropical cyclone claimed the lives of 11 people. An internet user shared this appreciative post explaining that thankfully, his favorite tree still stands after surviving a tumultuous year of landslides and typhoons.

 A Mini Library in a Seoul Subway Car

South Korea is an entirely different world, and this photo of a mini library set up in a Seoul train best proves it. Every bookworm would find an excuse to take the subway, even if they really weren’t going anywhere. Perhaps the only downside would be missing your stop if you are caught up reading a captivating publication.

Most people from other places around the world would agree that this “mobile library” wouldn’t last past a couple of days at best. Vandalism would be the biggest challenge, and it would be hard to prevent people from walking away with the books.

Vehicles Wrapped in Plastic to Prevent Paint Splatter Damage

Respect is a fundamental part of South Korean culture, and it is perhaps best exemplified by this photo. While working on an apartment complex, the painters were kind enough to protect the parked vehicles from potential splatter damage.  

The plastic pop-on covers came to the rescue, preventing random paint drops from leaving expensive and hard-to-clean stains. Just imagine the lawsuits that would follow elsewhere from painters not having the courtesy to go above and beyond the call of duty! The vehicle owners must have been grateful because they didn’t have to inconveniently park somewhere else as the paint job progressed.

A Starbucks in Seoul Offers Gardeners Leftover Coffee Grounds

Starbucks serves up freshly-brewed cups of joes to the masses but not many customers in South Korea know that the company recycles their used coffee grounds. Patrons can pick a bag, at no cost, for gardening purposes. The grinds are packed with phosphoric acid, nitrogen, potassium, and among other beneficial minerals. 

According to the beloved coffee business, they also assist in repelling harmful insects and diseases like blight. The company also uses a large percentage of coffee grounds to make compost and manufacture fertilizer. By 2022 the multinational chain had used 10 tons of the byproduct to make eco-friendly flower pots, and 30 tons went into biofuel research and sampling.

Individuals in Quarantine Receive Comfort Packages

The South Korean government found a simple yet genius way to assist those in quarantine. Rather than risk exposure by having citizens leave their homes, officials delivered care packages with fresh produce and hygiene essentials to doorsteps. 

An Imgur user going by the nickname Uvzxkwq shared images of the package he received on the second day. He said it also included literature outlining best practices and emergency income tips for families that were not working. Furthermore, there was a letter expressing sympathy and care for everyone’s well-being. At the time, dedicated case officers also kept in touch with people in isolation twice daily.

Mesmerizing Temple Roof Hand-Paintings

Temple art in South Korea is a fascinating subject to study, whether you appreciate such stunning visual creations or simply enjoy learning more about the nation. People spend hours staring at the mesmerizing masterpieces, attesting to their enchanting nature. A great example is this hand painting, found on the underside of a temple roof. 

It vividly displays rich colors and prints that blend harmoniously to produce stunning results. The hues are thought to protect the building from evil spirits and emphasize authority. Temples in South Korea display culturally significant traditional works of arts and architecture, hence why most are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

South Korea’s FairyLight-illuminated Streets

Living in South Korea means walking through magical streets like these daily. The unique lighting display looks superb, especially at night. Besides this, the county invested in unique street lights to enhance safety for persons who are always on their phones when crossing rods.

Known as floor traffic lights, walkers who are too focused on their mobile devices can see the red indicator on the road near a crosswalk telling them to stop immediately. When it is safe to proceed, the color will change to green. The Traffic Safety Facility Review approved the one-of-a-kind lights because most individuals were ignoring signs and warming, banning the use of phones while walking.

The Sign Reads, “ Caution Cat is Around”

Cat crossing signage is one of the unique things South Korea possesses. The sign warns both pedestrians and motorists against cats running onto the road. It’s not entirely clear how often felines use the signal to get to the other side of the road, but it is an exciting sight.

In recent years, pet ownership has continued to rise in South Korea, primarily due to the rise of single-person households and nuclear families. Cats are the second-most common companion animals in the country. This has given birth to a flourishing pet care industry that offers costly photo shoots, tailored diets, insurance, and funeral services.

Step Into An Amazing Cartoon World in This 2D Café In Seoul

Café Yeonnam-dong 239-20 in Seoul understood the assignment of designing an exceptional eatery. It boasts a 2D optical illusion that makes revelers feel like they have crossed dimensions into a cartoon universe. The monochrome artistic look drew inspiration from “W,” a Korean hit TV show by Lee Jong-suk and Han Hyo-Joo.

The tourists who visited the establishment explained that the second they stepped through the door, the visitors were welcomed by exhilarating black and white comic strip floors, walls, and furniture. The dishes, mugs, and cutlery also appeared like flat-line sketches. Thankfully, the menu is nothing but 2D, offering goodies like tasty coffees, smoothies, cheesecake, croissant sandwiches, and cupcakes. 

A Phenomenal Traditional Korean Palace Still Exists Beneath Towers of Steel and Glass

South Korea’s architecture is a charming mix of ultra-modern and traditional. The striking Gyeongbokgung Palace- one of the oldest landmarks in the country’s capital, surrounded by gigantic skyscrapers is a perfect combination of new and old.

The stately home, first built in 1395, served as the residence of Kings from the Joseon dynasty and government. Its name means a palace incredibly blessed by heaven. The premise was destroyed by fire during the war from 1952 to 1598 but restored and designated as a cultural property. It is home to many rooms, including a  hall built in a checkerboard pattern and a pavilion. It is also home to the National Folk Museum. 

Dining in a Snow-Covered Restaurant

South Korean streets covered in snow is a sight to behold. It offers residents and visitors a chance to have tons of fun, especially in the mountains, where individuals can participate in winter sports like skiing, ice fishing, sledding, and snowboarding. There are also plenty of festivals throughout the county, including light celebrations that create the most breathtaking views.

Famished individuals can take a hot meal in this small restaurant covered in snow. The cafeteria is found in the Mangwon neighborhood of the Mapo district. The cozy little diner specializes in serving Yukgaejang; a spicy beef soup customers can enjoy staying warm.

Solar-Powered Benches On The Streets In Seoul, South Korea

Taking a stroll in Seoul in South Korea is proof enough that the country is already living in the future. Your gadget will never run out of charge because pedestrians can randomly spot a solar-powered bench that offers wireless and USB charging docks. As you take a breather, you can ensure your phone or tablet gets enough power to last to the next destination.

The smart benches also include a built-in 4G router that facilitates speedy WiFi connection up to six meters around the seat. After the sun sets and the form batteries have a full charge, LED lights automatically turn on. AGM batteries on the bench cover the energy demand during cloudy days.

Hike and Explore the Wonderful Bukhansan

With over five million visitors yearly, Bukhansan is listed as the most visited National Park per unit area by the Guinness Book of World records. It showcases spectacular peaks, gorges, panoramic views, and crystal clear streams outside Seoul, producing impeccable harmony of nature. It also offers an excellent place for hiking and learning about culture, history, and ecology.

An outdoor enthusiast posted the above image capturing the exquisiteness of the colorful trees found along one of the trails. More than 3,000 animals and plant species, many Buddhist temples, and historical relics enrich the exploring experience. Guardrails and steps at different climbing points help guide and protect people as they ascend.

The Distinctive And Creative Root Bench in South Korea

The root bench in Seoul’s Hangang park appears to be organically spreading like the genesis of a giant tree. The circle-shaped furniture has been installed on grass, providing visual stimulus while creating a blurry boundary between the natural environment and artificial installation. The chair offers individuals a place to lie, sit, or lean on the sprawling branches that rise above ground at different heights.

Yong Ju lee, a Korean architect, is the brains behind the fantastic structure. DesignBoom reports that he used a computer algorithm to generate the seat’s three-dimensional geometry. It is large, measuring almost 100 feet in diameter, and can accommodate everyone regardless of size or shape.

Smartphone “Zombies” Are Safe in South Korea

South Korea is one country that understands too well that some people are too glued to their screens that they may not even notice oncoming vehicles endangering their lives. To avoid safety hazards, in-ground traffic lights have been installed across the capital city.

Mostly found close to crosswalks, they alert people on foot when it is time to stop and when the road is clear without them having to look up. Although the supplementary system was built for adults too focused on their mobile devices, an official in the Gangnam district noted that it also proved beneficial for keeping kids farther from busy roads.

Ice Lollies Come with Little Trays in Korea

South Korea is a hub for ingenious creations aiming to improve people’s lives. This ice lolly comes with a tiny tray to reduce the mess individuals make when eating the popsicles, as well as reduce wastage. The traveler who bought it was thoroughly impressed; they had to show the world.

When you are not in the mood for an ice pop, the country has a wide selection of innovative ice cream flavors people can enjoy. Examples include corn ice cream with a mild popcorn taste and chunks of frozen corn in a thin wafer shell. Twins-Twins has two popsicle sticks, and splits in the middle are another great treat.

The Beauty of Korea is Unmatched

South Korea is blessed with awe-inspiring beauty. It has several UNESCO world heritage sites, such as Dolmen Sites, Tripitaka, the lava-tube cave system, and Jeju’s volcanic island. Holidaymakers will be happy to note that they do not have to travel out of town to witness scenic nature because it is present in the city.

Seoul has many palaces where royal families used to reside, and it also offers hiking spots and beaches for people to take in all the gorgeousness it has in place. The county also allows people to see cherry blossoms during spring, sights one can see for the rest of their lives.

An Ancient Pine Tree at Daedunsan

This pine tree might look like a real painting but it exists in a real-life location, Snapped growing out of rocks in Daedunsan, it brings to mind the iconic line from “Jurassic Park,” “life always finds a way.” The Daedunsan is part of an ancient mountain range marked by a thousand stone rods, some extending for nearly four miles.

The vegetation around the area is equally noteworthy, with dense foliage and some of the oldest trees in the country.  Pine trees are rampant in the area, alongside oak trees, the Koreak plum-yew trees, and other varieties of broad-leaved deciduous trees.

Ansan City Has Pedestrian Rest Places Set Up Every Half Kilometer

Located in South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province, the city of Ansan rests southwest of Seoul. The Korea Transportation Safety Authority operates from the city, and these pedestrian rest areas are a reflection of the government agency’s sound street planning initiatives.

The city also has a public bicycle membership system known as "Pedalro," with 101 stations spread across town. Ansan also lies on the Yellow Sea coast giving it jurisdiction over some islands, including Daebu Island. The pension complex found at Daebu has served as a filming location for several drams like “Designated Survivor” 60 Days,” “The Secret of Birth,” and “Heading to the Ground.”

A Convenience Store in South Korea Organizes Chips In Rainbow Colors

Walking down the aisles at a grocery store reveals that similar products are grouped in together. Each store has a unique approach to its shelving practices and this supermarket in South Korea groups chips in rainbow colors.  The food retail industry in South Korea is booming, and perhaps it has a thing to do with such creative shelving tactics.

Hanaro Mart by Nonghyup is one of the leading grocery chains in the country, with 2,100 stores as of 2020. The online food market also grew exponentially in the same year, with most convenience stores developing delivery systems and other logistical support to retain their consumers.

Latte Art Experienced at the C Through Cafe In Seoul

Good grief, this Latte is almost too beautiful to drink, but at the  same time, you almost feel like asking “why the sad face?” It’s a Latte Art from one of Seoul’s cafes. According to a Reddit thread, the café is called “C Through,” and they are masters at crafting Instagrammable caffeinated drinks.

Lee Gang-bin, a co-owner, and barista working at the tony café explained that he uses the cream art technique to whip up the cute Latts. Colored icings poured on cold coffee creates the designs on the drinks. Speaking to Vale Magazine, Gang-bin further added that making the designs on hot beverages would change their flavor with time.

South Korea Is Serious about Battling Illnesses

South Korea is one of the countries that was not joking about fighting the pandemic. During summer, residents and visitors love to flock to the beach to cool down in the waters or have a blast on the sands. Everyone was required to make reservations beforehand and dial a designated phone number on arrival for registration purposes to curb the spread of the virus.

At the entrance, The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries provided temperature-sensitive stickers attached to a wrist or hand as preventive measures. If a person’s body temperature rises beyond 37.5 °C, it changes color, and the wearer must report to a control office for testing.

Dog Channels are a Thing in South Korea

In South Korea, many dogs typically spend considerable hours alone at home alone. There is DOGTV that entertains the canines with 24/7 digital television programming. The channel designed to reduce stress among the pets airs shows that are color-adjusted with a lot of yellow and blue images while steering clear of green and red because mutts are color blind to the shades.

The premium cable television network was the first made exclusively for man’s best friend. It features 3-6 minute segments that stimulate, relax, and expose dogs to daily life scenes such as riding in a car, playing in the field, and sounds like soft music, fireworks, and thunderstorms.

A Club Entrance that Looks Like a Curtain Being Lifted

South Koreans may work and study for some of the most prolonged hours globally, but they also know how to play hard. As a result, the capital city has one of the most dynamic nightlife scenes for night owls and party animals. Club Chroma in Seoul’s Paradise town is a great place to hang out.

The entertainment joint does not only offer a space for merrymakers, but the building also captures “The Imprint,” a complex idea by MVRDV, a Danish firm that used alternative perspectives and fluid architecture to imprint the designs of nearby buildings on the walls. The layered golden entrance also houses an indoor theme park.

The Daegaksa Temple Artistry is a True Masterpiece

Buddhist artistry is pretty insane, evidenced by the Daegaksa Temple in South Korea. The artwork here is surreal. Established in 1911, during the Japanese colonization period of Korea, it was initially a tiny "hanok." Reconstruction took place in 1986, and today it is a three-story temple with a belfry and main gate.

The primary mission of the structure was to prepare monks. It was founded by Yongseong Seunim, who was very active in the movement for the country’s independence movement. He was one of the 33 representatives of the March 1st movement. Nowadays, guests can tour the temple to take in all the brilliance in the structure.

Here is One Way to Encourage Folks to Drop the Extra Pounds

A person can think that the stairs are broken, looking at the image where the escalator is crowded, and not a single soul is on the staircase. It is despite the efforts of the country to nudge people to take the healthier option with stickers of a fat person pointing to the escalator and the other with a slim individual with an arrow pointing to the steps.

According to Sora News24, more than 50 people have lost their lives, and hundreds were injured because of the moving stairway accidents. This led to the creation of the Elevator and Escalator Safety Division to prevent accidents from happening in the future.

Handrail Sanitizers Installed on Escalators In South Korea

Microbiologists say that escalator handrails are among the germ-infested places found at malls. Tests found mucus, urine, feces, E.coli, and even blood on the handrails of escalators. Those who come into contact with these germs have a higher chance of coming down with colds, flu, and a myriad of other ailments.

In 2017, LG introduced its ultraviolet LED sterilizers that promised to put an end to handrail contamination. Fast forward to 2020 in the midst of the global flip flop, South Korean escalators introduced handrail sanitizers. The Clearwin UV-C Escalator Sanitizers are among the lists of sterilizing products installed at malls.

South Korea's Self-Cleaning Roads

South Korea adopted innovative measures to maintain the spic and span conditions of its roads by installing self-cleaning systems. The roads are fitted with sprinkler-style pipes fed by leftover water delivered from surrounding mills and factories. Coupled with technology, the sprinklers release water on a fixed schedule.

If that isn’t next-level city planning in itself, in 2019, the Korean government announced that they are working on having self-charging and self-warming roads. The Ministry of Lands explained that the system would charge vehicles on expressway. As for the self-warming function, it would come in handy during the winter months to clear the road of snow.

South Korean Supermarkets Offer Toilet Paper Samples

A few folks have become quite savvy when it comes to making the most out of the free samples offered by stores. The freebies help test different products to determine whether or not they work for individual consumers’ needs. Now, the supermarkets in South Korea have taken things a notch higher by offering toilet paper samples.

The person who shared this photo didn’t offer further explanation, because it raises a few questions. Is it a toilet roll that consumers get for free or just a few sheets of paper? Does a shopper get to take it home or use it at the store’s bathroom before deciding what works best for them?

Plastic Cake Knives Hide Free Candles and Matches,  For Baked Treats Sold In South Korea

Digging into a delicious piece of cake often means there is something to celebrate. In South Korea, when you buy one of these baked goods, it comes with free candles and matches. However, if you are not too keen you might miss the thoughtful freebies because they come hidden inside the accompanying plastic cake knife.

Before western food influenced the Korean culinary scene, traditionally, desserts served in the country weren’t the sweet, sugary treats we know. Korean desserts were typically fresh-cut fruit, rice cakes, traditional cookies, and teas. While western desserts are now prevalent in Korean cafes, you’ll still find the traditional treats served around the country, particularly during festivals.

Ancient Korean Architecture Is On a League of Its Own!

Traditional Korean architecture is timeless and will never go out of style. It is perhaps because it is characterized by simplicity, naturalistic tendencies, avoidance of extremes, and economy of shape. The constructions were epitomized by an artful combination of stone, paper, and wood to create spacious, sophisticated, multi-roomed structures that stand out to date.

Many traditional Korean buildings were characterized by enclosures within protective walls, clay tile roofing, interior gardens, courtyards, and raised platforms. Immediate topography was also important as constructors sought to blend their structures harmoniously with the natural environment, taking advantage of the picturesque views. The magnificent works are seen in palaces, temples, tombs, and fortification walls.

Yes, Trains in Korea Have Single-Person Karaoke Booths

Sometimes, passengers get a strong urge to sing while traveling, and South Korea has the perfect solution to take care of the cravings. The country has trains equipped with one-person karaoke booths. The singing rooms, locally known as "Norarbangs," are an excellent way to relieve stress on the rails.

The Noraebang or Karaoke culture is popular in the region. Most citizens here will start drinking with their friends in restaurants and bars and end up in a singing practice booth until the wee hours. The spot for showing off vocals usually has a tambourine, melody book, remote control for selecting tunes, and two microphones.

The Impressive Wavy FT Tower in Seoul

In 2011, South Korea unveiled the grand GT Tower East in Seoul. The showstopper designed by ArchitectenConsort, a Dutch company, boasts an elegant undulating glass facade with an organic wave motion effect. The wavy outcome was made possible by shifting the floor areas along half the diagonals by a maximum of about three meters.

The tower fulfills various purposes, including functional office spaces and room for cultural and commercial use. Numerous sustainability measures were intertwined into the building, like installing solar panels to generate power, plenty of natural light, an insulated façade, and adequate ventilation for an appealing working environment.

Pump Toothpaste for the Win in Oral Care

Pump toothpaste may have been the greatest invention in South Korea in terms of dental care. Users brag that a single pump about the size of a pea is the perfect amount humans should use on toothbrushes. The only problem comes when someone not used to the product mistakes it for hand wash.

Pumping toothpaste is particularly beneficial for hygiene compared with the tube type because it is not vulnerable to moisture. The structure ensures the least exposure to humidity. The packaging also prevents excess product usage. It is also quick and easy to use because it eliminates the burden of opening and closing lids.

Showman Tororo in South Korea

Everything in South Korea appears to be top-notch, even the snowmen on the side of the road. These are not your average snowballs with carrots for a nose and coal for eyes, as they are crafted with precision. Someone taking a walk was fortunate enough to capture a fabulous Totoro frozen figure which must have been exciting because he is known to hide in the forest.

Inspiration for the icy sculpture was drawn from "My Neighbor Totoro" an animated Japanese fantasy film. It narrates the story of the professor's two daughters, Mei and Satsuki, and their interactions with friendly wood spirits in the rural area.

Seoul Airports Have these Helpful Robots That Help Travelers Check Their Flight Details

Airports often seem like mazes structured to keep you trapped within the building, long enough to miss your flight. That isn’t the case in South Korea because they have these helpful robots wandering around. Travelers can check their flight information and access other helpful details.

It would be a great sight in airports elsewhere, but perhaps not in the United States. Going by the past fate of robots in the U.S., it wouldn’t fare any better than the hitchBOT. The famous Canadian hitchhiking robot successfully traversed Canada, the Netherlands, and Germany. However, two weeks into its cross-country journey in the U.S., it got decapitated!

This Library at Coex Starfield Mall In Seoul

Seoul is considered a shopping mecca, with bargain shops, high-end stores, and malls found all over the city. The malls, in particular, are not your average shopping complexes, and the Coex Starfield Mall best exemplifies it. It is a massive underground mall that is so well-lit, it could fool you into thinking it’s an above-ground complex.

However, the highlight at this mall is undoubtedly the jaw-dropping library. Stacks upon stacks of shelves carrying various publications line up its walls, from ceiling to floor. The 165,000-square-foot mall is the largest underground shopping complex in Asia, and it also features a casino and aquarium.

 Ramen Vending Machines In Korea

A Redditor shared this image explaining that it is an automatic Ramen dispenser in Korea. He added that it took 170 seconds for the Ramen to cook, and it was served hot and smelled great. However, he thought that it didn’t taste that great, and the presentation was also a letdown.

However, someone else challenged the narrative explaining that the machine only dispenses a ticket. You then take the ticket to a ramen cook, and the machine doesn’t really dispense the cooked meal. Ramen vending machines, however, aren’t a myth, and Japan has the Yo-Kai Express set up at the Tokyo Haneda Airport.

Choi Jeong Hwa's "1,000 Doors" Building

Choi Jeong-Hwa, a renowned South Korean artist, is the brains behind this ten-story installation created using 1,000 recycled doors. Aptly dubbed "1000 Doors," the façade features brightly-colored doors that have received a facelift to have a rustic flair and appear visually indulgent.

From a distance, it gives the sense of a pixelated effect, and it sort of reminds you of one of Gustav Klimt's abstract paintings. The surreal structure is only one of Jeong-Hwa’s many “found object” creations, and his work is internationally known for its anti-institutional approach. One of his other creations involved hanging strings of sparkling garbage at the Seoul Olympic Stadium.