The Uniqueness of Southeast Asia: Constructing an Autonomous Regional Identity within an Open and InThe Uniqueness of Southeast Asia: Constructing an Autonomous Regional Identity within an Open and In
Thailand's Intangible Cultural Heritage on the UNESCO Representative ListThailand's Intangible Cultural Heritage on the UNESCO Representative List
Cambodia's Intangible Cultural Heritages on UNESCO ListsCambodia's Intangible Cultural Heritages on UNESCO Lists
Singapore's Intangible Cultural Heritage on UNESCO ListsSingapore's Intangible Cultural Heritage on UNESCO Lists
Oman's Intangible Cultural Heritage on UNESCO Lists and an Outstanding PracticeOman's Intangible Cultural Heritage on UNESCO Lists and an Outstanding PracticeOman, a country rich in history and culture, has a diverse range of intangible cultural heritages that have been recognized by UNESCO. These heritages not only reflect Oman's unique cultural identity but also contribute to the global cultural diversity. Additionally, an outstanding practice from Oman showcases its efforts in promoting cultural dialogue and heritage preservation.
South Korea's Intangible Cultural Heritage on UNESCO ListsSouth Korea's Intangible Cultural Heritage on UNESCO ListsSouth Korea boasts a rich tapestry of intangible cultural heritage, with several traditions inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. These heritages not only showcase the country's unique cultural identity but also offer insights into its historical, religious, and social values.
Mongolian Children Start Learning Horse Riding at ThreeMongolian Children Start Learning Horse Riding at ThreeIn Mongolia, horse riding is an integral part of the country's culture and way of life, and children there start learning to ride horses at the age of three. This tradition has a long - standing history and is deeply rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongols.
North Korea: An Isolated EnigmaNorth Korea: An Isolated EnigmaNorth 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 SurgerySouth Korea: A Hub of Plastic SurgerySouth 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
Unique Hot - Pot Bathing in the PhilippinesUnique Hot - Pot Bathing in the PhilippinesIn the Antique Province of the Philippines, there is a long - standing and distinctive bathing method known as the Kawa Hot Bath. This is no ordinary bath but a real - life version of "stewing oneself in an iron pot".
Myanmar: Vast Fortunes in Jade Exchange Hands FreelyMyanmar: Vast Fortunes in Jade Exchange Hands FreelyMyanmar, 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.
Malaysia: The Tradition of Hand - EatingMalaysia: The Tradition of Hand - EatingIn 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 HomesCambodia's Unusual Sleeping Tradition: Hammocks Suspended Outside HomesIn 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.
Indonesia: An Island Nation Built on VolcanoesIndonesia: An Island Nation Built on VolcanoesIndonesia, 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.
Nepal's Unique Tradition: Annual Homage to DogsNepal's Unique Tradition: Annual Homage to DogsIn Nepal, a country rich in culture and traditions, there exists an extraordinary annual ritual dedicated to man’s best friend—dogs. This unique practice is part of a five - day festival known as “Kukur Tihar,” which is a significant segment of the larger Tihar festival, also referred to as the Festival of Lights in Nepal.
The Unusual Practice of Polyandry in BhutanThe Unusual Practice of Polyandry in BhutanIn 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.
Indian Trains: A Phenomenon of "Cheating"Indian Trains: A Phenomenon of "Cheating"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.
Pakistan's Unique Gesture: Shaking the Head to Show AgreementPakistan's Unique Gesture: Shaking the Head to Show AgreementIn 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.
Maldives: Home to the World's Largest SeedMaldives: Home to the World's Largest SeedThe 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.
Afghanistan: The Unconquerable Land for Over a CenturyAfghanistan: The Unconquerable Land for Over a CenturyFor more than a century, Afghanistan has earned a reputation as a place where no foreign power has been able to achieve a complete victory. Its strategic location, which serves as a crossroads connecting Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia, has made it a target of numerous foreign incursions.
