South Korea’s "Space-Out Competition": A Unique Event Promoting Rest in a High-Pressure Society

In South Korea, an annual event known as the "Space-Out Competition" has gained attention for its unusual concept of celebrating the act of doing absolutely nothing. This unique competition, which began in 2014, was created by South Korean visual artist WoopsYang (real name: Hwang Ji-hae) and offers a bold and light-hearted social commentary on the overwhelming stress and burnout that characterize modern society.

The "Space-Out Competition" was designed as a response to the intense demands and pressures faced by individuals in a society known for its high-stakes work culture and long hours. In a world where productivity and constant activity are highly valued, this event encourages participants to take a break from their fast-paced lives and experience the restorative power of stillness and quiet. The concept behind the competition is simple, yet deeply meaningful. Participants gather in designated public spaces and engage in a contest where the only rule is to do absolutely nothing. They are prohibited from talking, moving significantly, or using electronic devices for the entire 90-minute duration of the competition.

Participants are closely monitored throughout the event by heart rate sensors, which measure their physiological responses as they attempt to remain still and composed. The winner is typically the participant whose heart rate remains the most stable throughout the competition, as maintaining a calm and even heartbeat is seen as a sign of true relaxation and mindfulness. The event is meant to not only offer a moment of physical stillness but also to promote emotional and mental calm, something that is often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The "Space-Out Competition" has captured widespread attention, becoming both a humorous and meaningful escape from the high-pressure culture that dominates South Korea. The country is renowned for having some of the longest working hours among OECD nations, with employees often working overtime and sacrificing personal well-being for productivity. This competitive event offers a stark contrast to the demanding work culture, serving as a reminder of the importance of rest, self-care, and mental health.

Psychologists and mental health experts have praised the event for drawing attention to the need for stress relief in environments that prioritize overwork. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mindfulness practices, relaxation, and work-life balance, especially in hyper-productive cultures like South Korea. Dr. Kim Joo-hyun, a psychologist specializing in workplace stress, explained in an interview with The Korea Times that the "Space-Out Competition" symbolizes the collective yearning for a break from the relentless pressure to perform. “In our modern society, people are often overworked and under-rested,” Dr. Kim said. “This competition serves as a gentle reminder that taking time to pause and reset can improve mental and physical well-being."

The event’s success has sparked interest beyond South Korea, inspiring similar initiatives in other countries like China and the Netherlands. These international adaptations of the Space-Out Competition demonstrate its global relevance and resonance in an increasingly fast-paced world. For example, in 2018, the Chinese city of Shanghai hosted its own version of the event, attracting hundreds of participants eager to embrace a moment of calm in their otherwise busy lives. In the Netherlands, the event was embraced as a way to help combat the rising levels of burnout and mental fatigue that are common in many Western countries.

Furthermore, South Korea's "Space-Out Competition" has also gained attention for the way it has helped raise awareness about the importance of mental health and self-care. In a country with one of the highest rates of suicide in the world, particularly among young adults, promoting events that focus on relaxation and emotional health is seen as a positive step toward addressing mental health challenges. The event encourages not only rest but also a shift in societal attitudes toward work, productivity, and personal well-being.

The Space-Out Competition exemplifies how humor and creativity can serve as effective tools in fostering important social changes. In a culture where silence and rest are often undervalued, this event provides participants with an opportunity to appreciate stillness in a way that is both playful and therapeutic. It also highlights the need for a broader societal shift toward prioritizing balance, reflection, and mental well-being over continuous productivity.

In conclusion, the Space-Out Competition in South Korea is more than just a quirky contest; it is a powerful reminder of the importance of rest in a society that often demands too much from its people. As more countries begin to embrace similar events, it is clear that there is a growing global recognition of the need for balance in our work and personal lives. The competition has sparked important conversations about how to cultivate healthier, more sustainable lifestyles, one pause at a time.

Sources:

1. The Korea Times (2021). “South Korea’s Space-Out Competition: Emphasizing Rest in a High-Pressure Society.” Link to article

2. BBC News (2020). “The Rise of Mindfulness and Relaxation in South Korea.” Link to article

3. Psychology Today (2022). “The Growing Need for Stress Relief in Hyper-Productive Societies.” Link to article