If, for example, you plan to go to the gym and realize you’ve forgotten your socks, or it seems like a pleasant enough autumn afternoon to wear flips, yet suddenly the weather turns and goosebumps arise, one need not fear, for Korea is here.

Socks, socks and more socks. Obama ones, Angry Birds ones, Argentina flag ones, Park Ji Sung ones, Hello Kitty ones, Che Guevara ones; regardless of your affinity, your needs will be perfectly met.

On every corner, in every 구 (district), a sock vendor is not far off.

As funny as it sounds, street corner sock sellers have come through on more than one occasion; it’s nice to know you can depend on something.