Culture And Art

North Korea is often perceived as a country seemingly cut off from the rest of the world. In 2020, due to the global pandemic, North Korea closed its borders, which led to a significant decrease in its foreign trade. Its total foreign trade volume was $860 million in 2020, and it was expected to be less than $300 million in the following year, a sharp contrast to South Korea's trade volume which exceeded $1 trillion in the same period. The number of inbound and outbound passengers also shows a huge gap between the two countries, with North Korea having only a fraction of South Korea's figures.

South Korea is renowned worldwide as a paradise for plastic surgery. It accounts for nearly 25 % of the global aesthetic surgery market, with around nine in every 1,000 people having undergone some form of plastic surgery

Myanmar, a nation nestled in Southeast Asia, is globally renowned for its extraordinary jade trade, where artifacts worth hundreds of millions of dollars are casually bought and sold, painting a picture of a market like no other.

Brunei, a small Southeast Asian nation, is often described as "rich to the brim." Despite its minuscule size, it has amassed substantial wealth.

Singapore, known for its strict laws in many aspects, has a rather unique stance when it comes to the custom industry. Unlike some countries that have imposed outright bans, Singapore has chosen a different path.

Indonesia, an archipelagic nation in Southeast Asia, is known as an island nation built on volcanoes. It is located in a highly active volcanic zone, with over 130 active volcanoes scattered across its more than 17,000 islands. This geographical feature has both shaped and challenged the country.

In the unique cultural tapestry of Bhutan, an ancient practice of polyandry, where a woman can have two husbands, has long been a part of the country's social fabric. Although Bhutan officially abolished this polyandry system 37 years ago and adopted a monogamous marriage law, historical and cultural inertia has ensured that traces of this custom still persist in certain regions.

In Bangladesh, a significant phenomenon exists - many women do not ride bicycles. This situation is deeply rooted in the country's social and cultural context.

In India, trains seem to be operating in a way that is often described as "cheating". The country's railway system presents a unique spectacle.

In Pakistan, a fascinating cultural quirk sets its communication norms apart from many other parts of the world. Here, shaking the head isn't a sign of disagreement, as it is in most Western cultures; instead, it's a way to convey approval, agreement, or understanding. This unique form of non-verbal communication often surprises first-time visitors and can lead to initial confusion.

The Maldives, a tropical paradise renowned for its crystal - clear waters and idyllic beaches, is also home to a botanical wonder—the world's largest seed. This remarkable seed belongs to the Coco de Mer palm, which is primarily found on the Seychelles islands, but has a significant connection to the Maldives through trade and cultural history.

In Tajikistan, a unique beauty trend among women has caught the attention of many. Women here often sport a distinct makeup style - drawing a single, thick line for eyebrows.

In the Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan, there lies a mysterious and awe - inspiring sight known as the "Hell's Gate". This phenomenon has been captivating the world's attention for nearly half a century.

In Iran, a unique form of marriage - "contract marriage" - has been gaining popularity, especially among the younger generation. This phenomenon has emerged as a response to various social and economic factors within the country.

In the 21st century, the Mosuo people retain a matriarchal family structure, earning them the nickname "mysterious kingdom of women"—a cultural phenomenon that fascinates scholars and visitors worldwide. A key aspect is their "walking marriage" practice.

Jordan, a country in the Middle East, has a region that bears a striking resemblance to the surface of Mars. Wadi Rum, located in southern Jordan, is often referred to as the "Valley of the Moon" but it truly looks like a piece of Mars on Earth.