You Can Do What!? 10 Weird Laws You Have to See to Believe

Planning on visiting Thailand? Be sure not to go commando. That’s right leaving the house without underwear on is illegal in Thailand, just one of the many weird laws that you’ll find around the globe.  

While these laws may seem unusual to us, they’re part of a number of customs and traditions that have been around for centuries. It just seems like some people didn’t feel like updating them.

If you’re looking for a good laugh, read on for some of the most ridiculous laws currently instated around the world.

Germany: Enjoy Playing Piano? Not After Midnight

We want to believe that one angry neighbor was the reason why this law came to be. Whatever reason it came into existence, the country of “a million laws” is not a fan of music happening after midnight.

However, this is a law that, for the time, applies to pianos, drums and trumpets can carry on.

England: No Mute Swans on the Menu Tonight

While this may seem like an unusual law, knowing a bit of the background makes it a tad more logical. It’s a known fact that the queen owns all of the Mute Swans in England. She’s also the only one that is allowed to kill and eat these swans.

We’re not entirely sure how often or even why the queen likes to indulge in a good Mute Swan, however, we do know one thing… she doesn’t want to share.

France: No Ketchup for the Children

While we may think that mayonnaise on French fries is unusual, the French aren’t exactly into ketchup on fries either. So much so that they made it illegal for ketchup up to be on school cafeteria menus.

This law was first instated as a way to preserve French culture, however, we are sure someone was just mad at the Heinz company.

Italy: Don’t Die There, or There, There is Okay

One of the most bizarre laws on this list has to belong to Italy, with a law that makes it illegal to die in certain areas. In fact, Italy takes it so seriously that those who fail to take preventive death measures such as annual check-ups will have to pay an additional 10 euros per year.

While we understand that this is one of Italy’s more clever ways of drawing attention to long-lasting health, we aren’t entirely sure how these laws are enforced. 

Singapore: You Litter Lout

In Singapore, a fine isn’t considered punishment enough for being a litter bug…or in this case, littler lout.

That’s right, if you’re caught littering here you’ll actually be forced to wear an “I am a litter lout” t-shirt as part of your punishment.

The good news is, this will likely reduce the amount of littering and harsh chemical exposures in Singapore. For those of us who live where toxic exposure laws aren’t as respected, you can always learn more here.

Switzerland: All Goldfish Must Have Friends

For one reason or another, Switzerland has taken on an emotional investment in the social life of goldfish. In fact, having one goldfish is considered inhumane isolation by the country’s legal system.

Meaning, if you want a pet goldfish you better be willing to invest in more than one.

Japan: Dancing with the Lights On

DJ’s went to war against the Japanese government in 2015 when officials were attempting to band dancing after midnight (it’s clear that these were the same officials that were not enjoying piano playing in Germany).

But as the old adage goes “you win some you lose some.” While dancing is allowed after midnight, it is not allowed unless the lights are on. Which makes for one awkward nightclub.

Touche Japan, touche.

China: Passport to Reincarnation

It seems like Italy isn’t the only country with some illusion that they can control how and when people die. While China has no concern over how you go out, they do want some say on how you come back in, or if you come back in at all.

Following the beliefs of the Buddhist and the Dalai Lama, the belief of reincarnation isn’t rare in China. However, if you think you’re able to come back to life all willy-nilly you’ve got another thing coming to you.

The government has made it illegal to be reincarnated without their express permission. Again, we’re not entirely sure the logistics on how this is monitored or penalized, but we’re hoping it involves some kind of retro Ghostbusters style sensor.

Vietnam: Look, Mom, No Hands

While we agree with the lawmakers in Vietnam that driving without hands isn’t exactly the safest option, we’re not entirely sure how many people have to attempt this for it to become a law.

There is also some room for improvement within the language. We would like to know, are individuals without hands allowed to drive in Vietnam? Or is it only individuals with hands choosing not to use them that are in the trouble?

South Korea: the Best Video Game Threat Ever

South Korea has a number of obstacles and challenges in its path, however, being a parent in this country may not be one of them. After all, how many parents get to threaten their kids with being arrested for failing to put down the video games?

It’s a fact, kids staying up past midnight to play video games can result in jail time. However, a special rendition of this law was added later on where parents are able to give permission to their children to legally continue playing all night. Talk about leverage.

Weird Laws, Weird World

The more you’re exposed to the more you’ll realize that weird laws are just a symptom of an increasingly weird world. However, as we all attempt to make it out of this thing alive, there’s no harm in getting in a good laugh while we’re at it.

Check out our blog on all things weird to get your daily dose of entertainment. Just try not to do it while playing the piano at midnight with the lights on.

Weirdomatic is the place where all weird things come to life through the amazing world of photographs – a corner of our wild imagination or the whimsical face of the reality?