Illustrated picture. Photo: Mixi's
Most Ridiculous Rules in the World - Illustrated picture. Photo: Mixi's
Table of Contents

For your convenience, KnowInsiders has compiled a list of the world's most absurd—yes, strange—rules to help you learn more about any given nation. People travel for a plethora of different reasons. While some people travel to distant places to study history and nature, others go with the intention of experiencing the local cuisine and culture.

However, as tourists, we hardly ever learn about national laws, such as those pertaining to international embargoes.

What are the most ridiculous rules around the world?

1. Wearing green Jeans - North Korea

Photo:  The Irish Times
Photo: The Irish Times

North Korea's communist government forbids the wearing of blue jeans because it views them as distinctly American or Western. Anything that presents Western concepts or ideas is prohibited, according to the country's current leader Kim Jong Un. In actuality, you cannot have it if Kim Jong Un hasn't had one. Even the general populace in North Korea is required to wear their hair a certain way and no longer than that! Imaginary Biscuits

2. Practising Lip-syncing - Turkmenistan

Photo: wonderslist
Photo: wonderslist

Yes, it is officially forbidden in Turkmenistan to practice the art of lip-syncing, which is very popular among conscientious TikTok users. Lip syncing was outlawed by Saparmurat Niyazov, the President in charge of the country at the time. His justification for the law was to protect the nation's artistic heritage.

3. Kissing at the train station - France

Photo: Nohat
Photo: Nohat

The world is familiar with France as a destination for romance and love. You might be shocked to learn, though, that couples are not allowed to kiss each other at train stations. In France, it is strictly forbidden for lovers to show their affection for one another at train stations. Additionally, the regulation has been in place for a long time. It was first presented back in 1910. The law's justification, according to the authorities, is that these last-minute acts of devotion hurt train schedules because couples are rushing to give each other their undivided attention before they leave.

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4. Possessing Ponytails - Iran

Photo: iStock
Photo: iStock

Some people might be surprised to learn that the hairstyle that is so popular in the early school years is actually forbidden in Iran. For men, at least. Another hairstyle that Iranian men are not allowed to sport is mullets. It is a component of the so-called "Western" hairstyle ban, which prohibits men from donning "mullets, ponytails, and long, gelled hair."

5. Watching Winny the Pooh images - Poland

Photo: talkingnibs
Photo: talkingnibs

Believe it or not, Winnie the Pooh is banned from playgrounds in a little town in Central Poland called as Tuszyn. The local authorities argued that Pooh is appropriate for little children as he is “half-naked” and of “dubious sexuality”.

6. Keeping goldfish in a bowl - Italy

Photo: wonderslist

You cannot keep goldfish in a round glass bowl when you are in Rome, Italy. Fish kept in such bowls are thought to be cruel, especially since scientists claim the bowl restricts the fish's oxygen supply and may even cause blindness.

7. Wearing heels on ancient grounds - Greece

Photo:  The Guardian
Photo: The Guardian

Knowing this about Greece is essential. Since 2009, visitors to Greece's historic sites are not permitted to enter while wearing high-heeled shoes, according to NPR. This law was enacted because it is thought that wearing heels can exert an unexpectedly high amount of pressure on the ground, which could harm architectural landmarks.

8. Changing a light bulb - Victoria, Australia

Photo: talkingnibs
Photo: talkingnibs

In the second most populous state of Australia – Victoria, there is a ban on changing a light bulb for those who are not licensed electricians. The non-compliant may have to face a fine of up to 10 Australian dollars.

9. Rescuing drowning people - China

Photo: talkingnibs
Photo: talkingnibs

It is illegal in China, according to one of their laws, to save someone who is drowning. This law is related to Eastern philosophy, which views it as immoral to change someone's destiny. On the other hand, some argue that this regulation, implemented by the Chinese government, is merely a means of population control.

10. Chewing gum - Singapore

Photo:  Culture Trip
Photo: Culture Trip

Having bad breath? For the people of Singapore, where the sticky substance is prohibited in an effort to reduce the amount of polluting debris it leaves behind, that is truly unfortunate. It is also forbidden to import chewing gum into the nation. To cut a long tale short, if you are ever in Singapore, I would strongly advise against pulling out the Extra. You will see that the flavor, which is fleeting, is really not worth it when you hear how severe the penalties are. Travelers are allowed to bring two packets, though. Exceeding this amount could incur a hefty $5,500 fine and a year-long jail sentence - excuse the pun.

Conclusion

Here is a list of the top 10 absurd rules from around the world that KnowInsiders would like to share with you. If you wish to discuss this article further, please comment below.

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