How to solve the Korok cork puzzles in Tears of the Kingdom (TotK)

Figuring Out the Korok Cork Puzzles in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

When exploring the vast expanse of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, you’ll undoubtedly come across some intriguing puzzles. One type of puzzle that may leave you scratching your head is the Korok cork puzzles. These puzzles involve two corks chained together and plugged into a stump. Unplugging these corks can be quite the challenge, but fear not, as we have some solutions to help you out.

Strategy 1: Using the Stump’s Angle

To successfully complete the Korok cork puzzles, you’ll need to exert enough force on the dangling cork to dislodge the one in the stump. Since the stump is often positioned at an angle, you’ll need to apply force in the direction where it leans. If the stump is located near a ledge, try attaching a heavy object, such as a log, boulder, or a cluster of smaller rocks, to the dangling cork. Let the object dangle off the ledge to create the necessary force.

Strategy 2: Utilizing Water

If you encounter a stump near a body of water, a different approach is needed. Move the dangling cork as far underwater as possible before releasing it. The cork will spring up, exerting enough force to dislodge the plugged-in cork from the stump.

These methods are the intended solutions designed by the developers. However, during my exploration, I stumbled upon an alternative solution that can work in any stump’s location. By using the Ultrahand item, grab any objects and move them in a wide circular motion in front of the angled stump. Attach the object to the dangling cork and then Recall it, causing the object to move in reverse circles with the cork attached. This manipulation should pop the cork out of the stump, bypassing the intended solutions.

Regardless of which strategy you choose, these solutions will ensure that the Korok cork puzzles in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom no longer leave you feeling puzzled. Now, you can confidently tackle these challenges and continue your exploration without any head-scratching moments.

Screenshot via PC Invasion