“Young 40” — When Gen Z Teases Millennials in Korea

In South Korea, a new Gen Z trend is quietly roasting people in their early 40s. Nicknamed “Young 40,” it refers to adults who dress trendy, follow youth slang, and try to stay culturally relevant online. On social media, Gen Z users post memes and AI images exaggerating this look—oversized streetwear, expensive sneakers, and forced “cool” poses. Take a look at this viral illustration of the young 40 look.

“Young 40s” in Korea
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Korea’s Mobile Resident ID: Life Without a Physical Wallet

South Korea is rapidly moving toward a wallet-free future with the nationwide expansion of the Mobile Resident ID. This government-issued digital ID now works for identity verification at airports, banks, hospitals, convenience stores, and even age-restricted purchases.

Mobile Resident ID
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Why Koreans Love Heated Floors More Than Heaters

Korean homes stay warm from the ground up. Instead of heating air, floors are heated, keeping feet and bodies comfortable during long winters. People sit, eat, and even sleep on the floor, so warmth from below feels natural. This system is quiet, evenly heats rooms, and avoids dry air.

Ondol heated floor
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It’s Not Fashion—It’s Survival: Korea’s Padding Coat Culture

If you visit Korea in January, you’ll notice that almost everyone is wearing a long padded coat. On the subway, at cafes, even indoors, padding coats are everywhere. Korea’s winters are cold and windy, and people rely on public transportation and walking.

Long padded coat / long down jacket
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