Beware women with 'Monkey Fist'

On left, Monkey Fist with Marvel's popular character Captain America design comes as a key chain accessory. Instagram post @survivalism1106

By Grace Lee

“Monkey Fist” is emerging as a hot self-protection item for women.

The fist is a knot tied at the end of a rope, acting as a weight or anchor. Sailors first used the knot to put weight at the ends of lines, making them easier to throw.

In Korea, it is available as a keychain for handbags or car keys. It costs 16,000 won, plus shipping, for a normal 15-centimeter key ring and 5,000 won extra to add 9 cm to it.

There are also many different designs. Marvel characters such as the Hulk and Iron Man are available, but some are more costly. For example, the Captain America design costs an extra 14,000 won.

The Korean Monkey First keychain is made from paracord, or a parachute cord, that can withstand up to 250 kilograms per line.

Though it doesn't seem dangerous, it is able to break through pottery. There are videos on YouTube where people test the effectiveness of the Monkey Fist.

Grace Lee (grace.lee2@emory.edu) is an intern.