10 Awesome things in Korea that other countries should adopt

AKP STAFF

South Korea, a technological powerhouse, consistently pushes the boundaries of innovation, offering its citizens cutting-edge solutions that dramatically enhance daily living. The nation's drive for progress presents a blend of practicality and creativity that many countries can emulate. Here are ten awesome things in South Korea that could benefit countries worldwide.

1. Street Umbrellas: If you've ever been to Korea during the summer, you know just how hot and humid it can get and waiting around for the cross light to change under the scorching sun is not fun. But don't worry because Korea got you covered (pun intended), as they offer large shade umbrellas for people to stand under while waiting to cross the street.

2. Umbrella Bags and Dryers: To prevent water from dripping all over the store while you're shopping, Korea actually provides you with small bags of various sizes to put your umbrella in. Not only that, they also provide you with a drying rack where you can slip in your umbrella and give it a quick dry.

3. Women-Only Parking Spots: Some parking garages in Korea offer women-only parking spots for safety purposes. Often, they're closest to the entrance of the building and are usually designated in pink.

4. Pedestrian Crossing Light: Most Koreans almost always look down at their phones, especially while waiting for the light to change. To help more people be aware of their surroundings, Korea has implemented a series of crossing lights on the ground, which will shine green or red depending on whether or not you can cross the street.

5. Elevator buttons that can be un-pressed: Most commonly found in Asian countries, they offer the option to unclick on a floor. We've all had that one time when we accidentally pressed the wrong floor, right?

6. No tipping culture: Can you imagine not having to calculate tips at every cafe or restaurant you visit? While some places may ask for a tip, the vast majority of Korea still doesn't require you to tip.

7. Food delivery everywhere: Feeling hungry and wanting to order food while at the Han River? No problem because Korea's food delivery service even brings your order to the park. Uber Eats or Doordash might be convenient but Korean food delivery is on another level.

8. Yogiyo buttons on restaurant tables: Usually, we'll find ourselves calling out "Waiter!" or raising our hands, but Korea has simplified the process by installing buttons on the table to call for a waiter. Just click the button, and you'll hear a ding, which will signify to the waiter to arrive at your table. You'll often find these in Korean restaurants overseas, and they're so convenient that more restaurants need to follow suit!

9. Free side dishes: Everyone's always amazed at just how many side dishes or banchans are given out for free without extra cost at Korean restaurants. What makes it even better is that you can ask for refills without any extra charge.

10. Aprons at restaurants: Isn't it the worst when you're wearing something and after eating you find yourself with food stains all over? In America, you might get an Apron at a seafood restaurant but not at a standard restaurant. Well, this isn't a concern in Korea because you can actually request aprons, and the servers will bring them out so that you don't have to worry about staining your clothes while eating.