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Sweet Dreams: Seoul Holds 'Power Nap Contest' in Sleep-Deprived South Korea
Hundreds entered the city-run contest as officials checked heart rates to confirm deep sleep, highlighting South Korea’s chronic exhaustion.
- On Saturday, May 2, 2026, hundreds of residents gathered at Yeouido Hangang Park for the 2026 Hangang Nap Competition, hosted by The Seoul Metropolitan Government to promote rest among overworked citizens.
- South Korea consistently ranks among the most sleep-deprived Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development members, driven by 24-hour shopping malls, competitive hustle, and long work hours that define the nation's culture.
- University student Park Jun-seok wore Joseon Dynasty monarch robes, stating "I survive on three or four hours of sleep a night." English teacher Yoo Mi-yeon donned a koala-themed onesie, hoping to "borrow a little of their magic."
- Officials measured participants' heart rates to ensure deep, peaceful sleep during the event. Office worker Hwang Du-seong placed second, noting he was "very happy to be placed second place" after exhausting work shifts.
- Now in its third consecutive year, the competition reflects growing efforts by Seoulites to secure adequate rest within their fast-paced urban environment and challenge chronic sleep deprivation.
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46 Articles
46 Articles
South Korea is one of the OECD countries with the most overworked and sleepless inhabitants.
·Paris, France
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The third edition of Seoul's siesta competition was held on Saturday, May 2nd. A very serious competition, since South Korea is one of the countries where we work the most. And where we lack the most sleep... (International).
Hundreds of South Korean residents gathered in a park on the Han River on Saturday at the invitation of Seoul Municipality to do something many overworked South Koreans never tire of: sleep.
·Amsterdam, Netherlands (Kingdom of the)
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The fatigue at the nap competition venue was palpable.
·Finland
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Total News Sources46
Leaning Left7Leaning Right2Center35Last UpdatedBias Distribution80% Center
Bias Distribution
- 80% of the sources are Center
80% Center
L 16%
C 80%
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