Viral Gold Logo Discovery Sends Demand for Old LG Air Conditioners Soaring in South Korea

A surprising discovery has turned ageing air conditioners into prized collectibles in South Korea after a viral video revealed that some older LG units carry a logo made of 24 carat gold. The unexpected find has sparked a nationwide search for models produced around two decades ago, transforming what was once considered scrap into highly sought after property.

The frenzy began after a YouTube creator posted a video dismantling an old LG air conditioner and testing its metallic logo. The results showed the emblem was made of pure gold rather than a gold coloured alloy, a detail few consumers ever noticed when the appliances were first sold. Within days, the video spread widely across social media platforms, drawing millions of views and igniting curiosity among viewers.

As the clip gained traction, online marketplaces and second hand dealers were flooded with listings for similar LG air conditioners manufactured roughly 20 years ago. Sellers began advertising the units not for their cooling performance but for the potential value of the gold logo attached to the casing. Prices quickly climbed, with some listings demanding many times the original resale value of an outdated appliance.

Industry experts say the logo itself contains only a small amount of gold, limiting its intrinsic value. However, the viral nature of the discovery has created a classic case of speculative demand, where perception and novelty outweigh practical worth. For some buyers, the appeal lies in the thrill of owning a rare manufacturing quirk rather than the actual metal content.

LG Electronics has confirmed that certain older models did indeed feature logos made from real gold, a design choice intended to convey premium quality at the time. The company noted that the practice was discontinued years ago as production costs rose and branding strategies evolved. LG also cautioned consumers against damaging appliances or risking injury while attempting to extract components.

Despite those warnings, recycling centres and repair shops across South Korea report an uptick in customers asking about old air conditioners. Some households have delayed disposal plans in hopes their unit might contain the coveted emblem. Others have begun scouring storage rooms, basements and rural properties where outdated appliances are more likely to be found.

Economists and cultural analysts see the episode as another example of how viral content can rapidly reshape consumer behaviour. Similar trends have emerged in recent years around discontinued snacks, misprinted currency and obsolete electronics, where scarcity combined with online hype fuels short lived markets.

Environmental experts have expressed concern that the craze could lead to unnecessary electronic waste if people dismantle or discard units improperly. They stress that any recycling should be handled through authorised channels to avoid harm.

While interest may fade as more information emerges about the limited gold value, the episode has already left its mark on South Korea’s resale market. For now, a once overlooked air conditioner has become a symbol of how internet virality can turn everyday objects into unexpected treasures overnight.