8 Unusual Bans From Countries Around the World

Each country around the world has its share of laws that may seem absurd to people who don’t live there. Some of these laws are “out of this world”, but others abide by their unique cultural norms and customs. However, rules are the only way for each place to run smoothly, and when you want to travel the world and experience different cultures, it’s advisable to know how each principality works.

1. Iran banned the “man bun.”

To maintain the culture of Iran, they enforced a law that forbids men to don Western hairstyles, which includes ponytails, mullets, and spikes. Instead, men are encouraged to style their hair in ways inspired by Iranians’ complexion and culture.

2. Barcelona, Spain banned being shirtless.

Some parts of Spain don’t have a law forbidding public nudity, so it’s always allowed. However, in Barcelona, their regional laws have switched up, and they now ban nudity and semi-nudity on the streets.

3. In Singapore, you’re not allowed to chew gum.

The ban on making and selling chewing gum in Singapore took effect in 1992, including both bubble and dental chewing gum. This is because chewing gum litter had a harmful effect on trains and prevented the doors from closing smoothly. It also affected cinemas, housing, and other public places.

4. In South Korea and Japan, you are not allowed to turn off your camera sound.

People in South Korea don’t have the privilege of turning off their camera-click sound. When the first phone was released in 1999, it had a camera, and Japanese people were the first to have phones with a camera. However, they started misusing it by taking inappropriate pictures, therefore, it was banned. That’s why now, whenever they take a picture, people around them can hear it.

5. The name Elvis is banned in Sweden.

Many names are banned in Sweden, including Superman, Veranda, Metallica, IKEA, and Elvis. This is because of a law that was made in 1982 called the “Naming Law,” which says that these names may cause discomfort and can be offensive. Also, when your child grows up, they might be prone to teasing if they have one of these names.

6. Wearing heels while visiting some historical places in Greece is forbidden.

In Greece, if you plan to visit any ancient monuments or historical sites, try not to go in heels because it’s not allowed. This is because heels may likely damage and scratch the various surfaces and stones.

7. Noise is banned at night in Victoria, Australia.

It’s considered offensive to produce “unreasonable noise from a residence.” This includes driveways, sheds, and workshops. They consider how loud the music is, what the noise sounds like, the time and place, and the circumstances around it.

8. You aren’t allowed to wear blue jeans in North Korea.

It’s illegal to wear blue jeans in North Korea because it’s closely associated with Western influence, which the government attempts to restrict. They’ve also forbidden the use of piercings, and are very strict when it comes to certain hairstyles.

Which bizarre ban did you find most surprising? Let us know in the comments!