Urban legends from Japan and South Korea are notoriously famous worldwide, particularly as entertainment products continue to develop. However, intriguing urban legends can be found not only in these two countries but also in many other Asian nations, such as Thailand and Indonesia, where mysterious stories abound that can send shivers down the spine of listeners.
Kashima Reiko – Japan
Japan is undoubtedly a country rich in urban legends. Almost anywhere and in any situation, the Japanese have a story to tell. Even while using public transportation, such as trains, urban legends can manifest through the character of Kashima Reiko.
The legend states that a Japanese woman was cut in half when she fell onto the train tracks, and after this accident, her upper half runs away very quickly. She is known as Kashima Reiko. Instead of using legs, she moves on her hands. Those who have encountered her are said to have died as a result of being cut in half.
Haunted Mansion – Turkey
The mansion named Perili Kosk is considered one of the most notorious in Turkey. According to rumors, workers involved in constructing the mansion assert that they have seen the ghost of a woman. This woman is the late wife of an Ottoman Empire official, Pasha Yusuf Ziya. Several passersby have also claimed to have heard faint piano music emanating from the mansion.
The Sweet Girl on Ancol Bridge – Indonesia
Residents of Jakarta, Indonesia, believe that the numerous accidents occurring on Ancol Bridge are caused by the spirit of a woman named Maryam. This spirit haunts the bridge. Legend has it that Maryam was once a beautiful maid. One day, while trying to escape from her master, she got lost and was harmed by thugs. Subsequently, they killed her. Maryam’s restless spirit lingers around Ancol Bridge and is believed to cause traffic accidents.
Maria Labo – Philippines
The Philippines tells a chilling story about Maria Labo. Maria Labo is the wife of a police officer, and she has two children while often caring for an elderly man. Things took a dark turn when the old man passed away, cursing her as he died. Under this curse, Labo begins to crave human flesh.
Orang Minyak – Malaysia
Orang Minyak is believed to be the ghost of a man covered in a black oily substance. It appears to be behind incidents involving the harassment of young girls and the theft of expensive household items. In 2012, Orang Minyak was rumored to have terrorized a village for several consecutive weeks.
Mae Nak Phra Khanong – Thailand
This legend is said to have taken place during the reign of King Mongkut (1851-1868). A man named Tid Mak served in the military, so he had to bid farewell to his pregnant wife. While Tid Mak was away, his wife Nak went into labor and died. However, her love for her husband was so strong that her spirit, along with that of their child, never left their home.
