
When talking about Idaho, the first thing that comes to mind is the spacious atmosphere, which is not just a feeling but is also confirmed by numbers. Idaho's population density is in the 20s per square mile, making it one of the least populated states in the U.S., ranking around 44th. This means that with just a few more states above it, it could be on the list of 'most sparsely populated states.' You can think of it as a place where people live quite sparsely.
When compared to Korea, the difference feels even more dramatic. Idaho's area is almost twice that of South Korea. South Korea's size is about 100,000 km², while Idaho is around 210,000 km², so just looking at the map, you might wonder, "How is this twice as big?" But it is indeed the case. However, what about the population? South Korea is packed with over 50 million people, right? Idaho has just a little over 2 million people. So, while the land is double, the number of people is nearly 20 times less, giving you a clear sense of how sparse it is.
So when you visit Idaho, you often find stretches of highway where you can't see cars in front or behind you, and just a little outside the city, nature unfolds immediately. Thanks to this structure, people say, "Idaho is really spacious and quiet," and actual statistics accurately support that image.
One of the reasons many people are surprised about Idaho is the 'body size atmosphere.' Compared to the national average, Idaho definitely leans towards the slimmer side.
First of all, looking at the surrounding states, it borders places like Nevada, Utah, Montana, and Wyoming, where outdoor activities are deeply ingrained in the lifestyle, naturally absorbing the influence of this culture. In fact, Idahoans commonly enjoy hobbies that involve physical activity, such as hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing, and just a little outside the city, mountains and rivers are readily accessible, making it a routine to head into nature every weekend.
Thanks to this environment, unlike the South or Midwest U.S. where obesity rates soar, there is generally a high level of activity, allowing the average body shape to remain relatively slim. That said, not everyone is thin, but at least it is definitely far from being known as a 'fat state.'
In terms of average height, Idaho is slightly above the U.S. average. The reason is simple. Areas with a very high percentage of white residents, particularly those with a strong Nordic heritage, tend to have higher average heights. In fact, when encountering people on the streets, many find that they are generally larger and more robust, leading first-time Korean visitors to Idaho to often feel, "Everyone looks so big!"
So to summarize the overall atmosphere, the obesity rate is lower than the U.S. average, height is slightly above average, and the body shape itself tends to be 'large and sturdy but not excessively overweight.' The natural environment and lifestyle create a structure where people have to move their bodies every day, and this regional characteristic is clearly reflected in people's body shapes.




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