Hong Kong: In a world where we are told sitting idly is a waste of time, a competition that was held in Hong Kong required participants to sit idle for 90 minutes. The international Space-Out competition is unlike any other. You can only win the competition if you manage to do nothing for the given time.
This annual quirky competition, founded in 2014 by artist Woopsyang, was held on October 13, 2024, in Hong Kong. Residents of the city from all age groups participated in the event. Though the event originated in South Korea, it has gained popularity across the world. This year, the competition was held as a part of Festive Korea, an annual event organised by the Korean Cultural Centre. Previously, Hong Kong hosted Space-Out in 2018 at the AIA Vitality Park on the Central Harbourfront. The competition is free of charge and all are welcome.
What happens at the International Space-Out competition?
Those participating in the event are not allowed to do anything. They cannot chit-chat, drink, eat, sing, dance, etc. Also, those moving too much are disqualified. Throughout the event, the heartbeats of the participants are monitored every fifteen minutes and those unable to maintain a steady heartbeat are eliminated.
Winners are selected based on the steady heartbeat criteria and the votes from spectators. Participants are judged by the audience based on their reasons for joining the competition and also their performance at the event. Denis Kwan Hong-wang became the winner of the 2024 competition. He won an air ticket to South Korea.
