The Art of Doing Nothing: South Korea's Space-out Competition
In today's fast-paced world, filled with constant smartphone notifications and a relentless pursuit of productivity, taking a moment to simply do nothing has become a rare luxury. Yet, in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, there exists a unique event that celebrates the art of stillness and silence: The Space-out Competition.
Held on a tranquil garden with a total of 117 participants, this competition seeks to crown the individual best at doing nothing. Participants of all ages gather on yoga mats, surrendering to a peaceful state while resisting temptations to speak, whisper, or check their phones. This year, Kwon Soa emerged victorious on May 12, 2023.
The rules are simple yet strict. Once the competition begins, participants must remain silent and still for 90 minutes without succumbing to distractions like conversations or social media. Falling asleep leads to immediate disqualification. The initial phase involves public voting to shortlist the top ten competitors, followed by an analysis of the participants’ heart rates to determine whose was the most regular.
Originated by visual artist Woopsyang a decade ago, the Space-out Competition not only offers a respite from hectic daily lives but also encourages introspection and mindfulness. 'I created this competition thinking that it would be nice to all take a break together in the same place and at the same time,' Woopsyang explains.
The event resonates deeply with many, including notable personalities like Olympic speed skater Kwak Yoon-Gy, who found it an ideal way to clear his mind. YouTube star Kim Seok also participated to manage stress and worry. The competition represents more than just a temporary escape; it symbolizes a journey of self-discovery.
While participants remain stationary, the visual contrast of a still group against a busy world was a work of art in itself. What began as a local event has now expanded globally, with Space-out competitions also occurring in Taiwan, Malaysia, China, and Japan.
Beyond the social and artistic aspects, there's a stringent monitoring system where participants’ heart rates are checked every 15 minutes. This not only ensures fairness but also highlights the underlying physiological impact of doing nothing.
In a hyper-connected society, the Space-out Competition stands as a testament to the need for moments of peace and a reminder that embracing silence can be a powerful act of self-care.
- The Space-out Competition was inspired by the need to create a safe haven where individuals can step back and enjoy a moment of serenity. The concept swiftly gained popularity, reflecting a universal craving for breaks from continuous connectivity.
- Participants come from varied professions, adding a rich diversity to the event. Wearing everyday clothes, they symbolize a cross-section of society coming together to cherish the simplicity of stillness.
- For many, the competition isn’t solely about winning; it's an opportunity for reflection and reconnecting with one’s inner self. This unique event underscores that tranquility and mindfulness can profoundly impact mental health and well-being.
- The global reach of the Space-out Competition indicates its resonance across cultures. Every year, more cities join in, making it a widespread movement advocating for mental calmness and emotional release.
