#Staff Column
2023.10.11
Denmark, the Land of Hygge
Insights from Northern Europe
- A Global Ward Series
Part 4. Denmark's Culture and Lifestyle Through a Nordic Perspective
Columnist
Martin Rho Luxury Brand Global GTM Team
In my previous columns on Finland, Sweden, and Norway, I relied on the support of the embassies. For this piece on Denmark, however, I leaned on international students' insights in Korea. I had the privilege of inviting Nordic students currently studying at Yonsei University for a session of sharing stories while enjoying Korea's signature snack, tteokbokki.
What do
we truly know
about Denmark?
I posed this question to myself. My initial thoughts drifted to Copenhagen, the city I recalled from the golden key on my childhood spinning-top toy, the tales by Hans Christian Andersen, best known for “The Ugly Duckling,” the statue of the Little Mermaid, and the Vikings. Given that opportunities to engage with international students are rare, I was eager to quench my myriad curiosities about Denmark and the broader Nordic region.
My first query was about how the Nordic people see themselves. Norway and Sweden shared a common theme: emphasizing cooperation and cultural exchange as neighboring countries. Glancing at the map, Denmark borders Germany to the south and faces Norway and Sweden of the Scandinavian Peninsula to the north.
The pride of Denmark
Perhaps due to their geographical proximity, Danes, Norwegians, and Swedes can communicate with each other. Norwegians, in particular, have such a grasp of the Danish language that they frequently use Danish terms and expressions in conversation, indicating a shared linguistic system. Beyond this, I explored other intriguing hallmarks of Denmark.
1. Maritime Wind Power Industry
Notable Danish companies familiar to us include LEGO and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), a joint venture between the three Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Recently, Denmark has been leading in the renewable energy sector. In the 1970s, like many other nations, Denmark was heavily reliant on oil. However, the oil shock triggered a significant crisis, which paved the way for their emphasis on wind power. Owing to the country's windy climate, it offers an ideal setting for large-scale wind power generation. Denmark is said to host the world's number-one wind turbine company.
2. A Bicycle-Friendly Country
The cities of Denmark have cultivated a bike-friendly environment, with a significant number of residents using bicycles as their mode of transport. Bicycles are an integral part of urban transportation. Out of every 10 Danes, nine own a bicycle. It's intriguing to learn that 49% of the population commutes by bike, and 25% of school-going children ride bikes to school. This data stirs a longing to relish the moments of leisurely pedaling through the streets of Denmark.
3. Enshrined in the Guinness Book as the Oldest Flag
Denmark's national flag, referred to in Danish as the “Dannebrog,” translates as “The Power of Denmark.” A white Scandinavian cross on a red backdrop characterizes it. Legend has it that on June 15, 1219, during the Battle of Lyndanisse, while on an expedition in Estonia, the Danish king, facing impending defeat, witnessed a crimson flag adorned with a white cross descending from the heavens. This celestial intervention, it's believed, led to a triumphant victory for the Danish troops.
Source : Wikipedia - Battle of Lyndanisse
4. Hygge and Comfort
As introduced in a previously penned column titled “Sweden, the Land of Fika and Lagom,” Sweden holds dear the concept of “Lagom” — a word denoting “just right” or “adequate.” It encapsulates the Swedish culture's emphasis on a simple, balanced life in harmony. However, in Denmark, there's “Hygge.”
Hygge underscores relishing life in friendly environments, cherishing warm moments with friends and family,
and finding solace in a book or a coffee.
It's a sentiment associated with reducing stress and augmenting life's contentment,
and is often linked to ambient candle lighting, a steaming cup of tea or coffee,
immersing oneself in a book, or spending quality time with loved ones.
But hygge transcends the mere creation of cozy surroundings; it accentuates living in the moment and sharing it.”
Meik Wiking, the Director of the Happiness Research Institute in Denmark and the author of “The Little Book of Hygge,” likens Hygge to ‘a cup of hot chocolate by candlelight.’ Just the imagery evokes an inner warmth and serenity.
As we conclude the story
As narrated by exchange students, the tales from Denmark felt akin to a warm embrace, as though gifting moments of precious time. The narrative imbued a sense of solace and felt like an invitation into a scene from a cinematic masterpiece. Could it be the conclusion with the notion of Hygge Life? Hygge Life seems to illuminate our wearied life journeys, offering moments that brighten our present and leave behind memories tinted with beauty. Perhaps that's why the snow-laden winters are ardently missed in the chilly embrace of September's autumn.
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