Many of the ghosts in these stories are tied to a specific location. It could be a castle where they once lived or a battlefield where they died. They can't leave that place. Also, they usually appear in a form related to their life or death. A knight might appear in his armor, and a nun in her habit.
In the '2018 ghost stories', the ghosts may possess a sense of malevolence. They could be the source of unexplained noises like moaning or wailing in the dead of night. Some ghosts might be visible only to certain people, perhaps those who are more sensitive to the supernatural. They could also have the ability to create an atmosphere of dread and fear, making the hairs on the back of people's necks stand up just by their presence.
Many of them have a distinct appearance. Take 'Kuchisake - Onna' for instance. She has a slit - mouthed face which is very creepy. And they usually are associated with a certain place, like Okiku's ghost with the well.
Well, often they are translucent or have a hazy appearance. They might be dressed in old - fashioned clothing, like from the era they died in. And they usually make strange noises, like moaning or whispering.
Many Korean ghosts are often vengeful. For example, ghosts in stories related to unjust deaths seek revenge on those who wronged them or on the living in general.
Many of the ghosts are vengeful. For example, ghosts of wronged women often come back to seek revenge on those who wronged them.
In many Bangladesh ghost stories, ghosts often have a pale appearance. For example, the Shakchunni is described as having a very white face.
Some of the ghosts in ancient Rome stories were associated with religious or moral transgressions. The ghost of the Vestal Virgin was a result of her breaking her vow in a society where that was a huge sin. These ghosts were a form of moral reminder, their presence a sign of the consequences of going against the established norms. They were often described as being in a state of distress, reflecting the wrong that had been done to them or that they had done.
In Khmer ghost stories, many ghosts are often associated with specific locations. For example, some are tied to old, abandoned places. They usually appear at night. Their appearance can be very spooky, like a figure in white or a shadowy form.
In handsome ghost stories, the ghosts are often described as having a refined or noble look. They could have a pale complexion which gives them an otherworldly beauty. Their hair might be perfectly styled, like it was frozen in time from when they were alive. Their voices, if they speak, can be smooth and alluring. They also seem to have a sense of purpose, not just aimlessly wandering. For example, a handsome ghost might be trying to right a wrong from his past life, and this sense of determination makes him even more appealing.
In Russian ghost stories, many ghosts are often associated with nature. For example, the Rusalka is closely tied to water. They are usually vengeful, like when a Rusalka tries to drown people as revenge for her own death. Another characteristic is that they can be tied to a place. The Lady in White often haunts a specific building.