In the heart of Indonesia's Sulawesi region lies Buton Island, home to a stunning anomaly that has taken social media by storm - indigenous people with naturally bright blue eyes. Captured by photographer Korchnoi Pasaribu, these mesmerizing portraits have left the world in awe.

But what causes these striking eyes among Asians? The answer lies in Waardenburg syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects pigmentation and can result in vivid blue eyes, heterochromia (two different-colored eyes), or even light skin patches and hearing loss.

Eye color is usually determined by melanin and influenced by up to 16 genes, with brown being most common globally. But the Butonese defy that norm with their captivating sapphire stares.

Buton Island itself is rich in biodiversity, lush rainforests, and is one of only two habitats for the endangered anoa buffalo.

A genetic rarity wrapped in natural beauty — Buton is a place like no other.