Free hugs from Kpop group 2PM? By now, hopefully you know how I feel about this. That said, SIGN ME UP! Again and again and again….An estimated 800-900 free hugs were given out by 2pm to random passersby in the Hongdae area of Seoul this week. There seems to be no motivation behind free hugs, other than to be featured on KBS 1TV, “Choi Kyung-joo and Friends” show on May 30th. Such altruists, the boys are! Perhaps the free hug was just one promotional tool in 2 pm arsenal box to one-up SHINee? I dig it.

It’s great to know that since the ‘free hug’ Youtube videos went viral in 2006, it’s made such a big cultural impact in Korea that it’s still alive today. Having been to Korea twice, I’ve observed that touching strangers (if it’s not to push or shove people out of your way) is not the norm for Korean society. It’s also a bit awkward there to hug-greet people you’ve only met a few times. Or maybe that’s just the universal norm and I’m just an awkward person. Are you surprised? No. Peep these photos:

On second glance, the boys might’ve been cross promoting the show and Paris Baguette. I ain’t complainin’ — free hugs and bread? Hell yes. Some mighty fine heartfelt lookin’ hugs (and bread) there!