80-Year-Old Wins South Korea's Power-Nap Championship Amid Sleep Crisis
An 80-year-old resident of Seoul has won South Korea’s annual power-nap championship. The competition tested who could take the most restorative short sleep during the day. Judges used pulse meters to measure heart rate and sleep quality.
The event brought together participants struggling with sleep deprivation. Many in South Korea face long working hours, leaving little time for rest. The country ranks among the most overworked in the OECD, with widespread reports of poor sleep habits.
The winner impressed judges by achieving the deepest and most refreshing nap. A 37-year-old office worker, who usually sleeps only three to four hours a night, finished as runner-up. Organisers said the competition aimed to highlight the dangers of chronic sleep loss. They also wanted to teach people how to recharge efficiently with short naps during busy days.
The championship put a spotlight on South Korea’s sleep crisis. By rewarding effective napping, it encouraged better rest habits in a nation known for overwork. The event’s methods, including heart rate monitoring, provided a scientific approach to assessing sleep quality.
