Free Hugs in South Korea

I first stumbled across this story in the Boise newspaper, but the video was a bit chopped up and moved immediately to the next video -- which highlighted skiing cowboys. Not that I have anything against cowboys, but I'm trying to stick to a theme here of positive actions and positive thinking making change in the world. So I searched a bit more. One thing I've noticed about stories is there are usually many variations on a theme. Although there are so many news reporters out there fighting to get a story, often they just end up grabbing similar ideas and trying to put their own spin on it. So, I went looking for free hugs in South Korea.

Turns out there seems to be a fledgling world wide movement of people willing to give free hugs to strangers. Vancouver, Korea, Germany, Finland, US. I'm not sure where it started, but the videos are moving.

This is one of the English speaking videos I found. Somehow, just watching strangers hug is incredibly moving and warms my heart. I love watching people get over some of their inhibitions just to share a hug. And everyone smiles. Everyone.

Turns out free hugs aren't as free as you would think. Somewhere along the line the "authorities" are called in and try to shut down the Free Hugs people. What could be the problem? Watch and see how it gets resolved. Inspiring, and every time I watch it I am moved. How wonderful that such a small act could make such a big difference.

This is the the first video I stumbled across. It is from South Korea. Equally as moving. I think they share the same music called "All the Same" by the SickPuppies.

I don't mind where you come from, the lyrics say. I'll take you for who you are. I'll take you for who you are.