There’s something inherently fascinating about twins—their uncanny similarities, shared quirks, and mirrored lives. But in some cases, it’s their unexpected differences that truly capture our attention. A recent study in Science Direct explored just that, documenting the remarkable reunion of identical twin sisters who were separated as toddlers and raised in entirely different cultures.
The sisters were born in South Korea in 1974 and spent their early years side by side—until a devastating accident at a crowded market separated them. Only one twin was found, despite her family’s relentless efforts. She stayed in Korea, while her sister—completely unaware of her twin or any siblings—was adopted by a family in the United States.
It wasn’t until 2018 that the American-raised twin uncovered the truth about her past. After submitting a DNA sample to a South Korean program aimed at reuniting separated families, she discovered not only her identical twin sister but also other biological siblings.
Young identical twinsCanva
Their astonishing reunion drew the attention of researchers, who saw a rare opportunity to explore a key question in twin studies: to what extent do upbringing and environment shape who we are—our personality, mental health, and intelligence?
The results of cognitive testing were striking: although the sisters shared identical DNA, their IQ scores differed dramatically. The twin raised in the U.S. scored 16 points lower than her Korean-raised counterpart—a gap more than double what researchers usually observe between identical twins, who typically differ by no more than 7 points.
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"The twins showed substantial differences in cognitive abilities that have been linked to strong genetic influence," one researcher observed. Multiple childhood concussions sustained by the US-raised twin, researchers speculated, could have played a role in her lower IQ score.
Still, despite their significant IQ gap and vastly different upbringings, the twins exhibited strikingly similar personality traits. "Notable is that both twins are distinctively high on conscientiousness—indicating that both are purposeful, well-organized, dutiful, and achievement-striving," the researcher wrote.
Same clothes, same hair, exact same genesCanva
Researchers also uncovered stark contrasts in the sisters' upbringing: the twin raised in Korea experienced a warm and supportive home, while her sister in the U.S. endured significant challenges within her adoptive family. And yet, both women demonstrated notable resilience, with similar scores in self-esteem and overall mental health assessments.
Their experience challenges assumptions about what shapes us. Despite growing up worlds apart, the twins reveal how genetics and environment can pull in opposite directions while still producing surprising points of connection. The study adds meaningful insight to the nature versus nurture conversation, showing that the answers aren’t always clear-cut.
This story originally appeared last year.
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Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.