The Real Shithouse

(Photo : AFP)

SIM Jae-Duck was born in a toilet and now he plans to live and die in one - a $US1.6 million toilet-shaped house designed to promote his tireless campaign for cleaner loos worldwide.

Mr Sim will open what is billed as the world's one and only toilet house on November 11 to mark the launch of his World Toilet Association. Mr Sim's birth in a public toilet was in line with traditional beliefs.

"It was intentional. My mother followed advice from my grandmother that people born in restrooms will enjoy long lives," said the 74-year-old.

Mr Sim's campaign began during his term as Suweon mayor from 1995 to 2002. His drive to transform toilets into "clean and beautiful resting places imbued with culture" earned him the nickname "Mayor Toilet".

And just in case you were wondering : yes, he does rent it out. For $50,000 (US) a day. Don't forget to flush.