North Korea: An Isolated Enigma
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: A Hub of Plastic Surgery
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: Vast Fortunes in Jade Exchange Hands Freely
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.
Thailand: The Enigma of Beauty Beyond Gender Boundaries
Thailand has long been renowned for its vibrant and diverse culture, and one of the most captivating aspects is the prominence of transgender individuals, known locally as "kathoey." In the bustling streets, lively entertainment venues, and tourist hotspots of Thailand, it is not uncommon to encounter stunningly beautiful individuals whose gender identity may leave onlookers guessing.
Malaysia: The Tradition of Hand - Eating
In Malaysia, hand - eating is a deeply ingrained cultural practice that continues to thrive. This tradition, far from being a universal rule, is prominently observed, especially among the Malay community and in certain cultural settings, and offers a unique and intimate dining experience.
Cambodia's Unusual Sleeping Tradition: Hammocks Suspended Outside Homes
In Cambodia, a unique and eye - catching tradition sees people sleeping in hammocks suspended outside their homes, often right at the front entrance. This practice, deeply ingrained in the local way of life, is a response to the country's warm climate and the desire for a cool, breezy resting space.
Brunei: A Tiny but Wealthy Nation
Brunei, a small Southeast Asian nation, is often described as "rich to the brim." Despite its minuscule size, it has amassed substantial wealth.
Singapore's Approach to the Sex Industry: No Ban on the Custom Industry
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.
