By n a world that constantly demands more—more work, more productivity, more connectivity—it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find true peace. For many, stress and burnout have become a way of life. But in South Korea, a country known for its fast-paced work culture, some people have found an unusual way to disconnect: a prison for relaxation.
Why Would Anyone Pay to Be Locked Up?
Located in Hongcheon, about 90 kilometers from Seoul, a facility called “Prison Inside Me” offers people a unique retreat. For about $90 a night, guests voluntarily lock themselves in tiny, cell-like rooms to escape from their daily stresses. There are no phones, no internet, no social interactions—just complete silence and solitude.
Many of the participants are professionals, students, and individuals dealing with anxiety and burnout. Rather than heading to a luxury spa or a beach resort, they choose to be confined in a prison for relaxation to experience true mental detox.
What Life Inside the ‘Prison’ Looks Like
Guests at Prison Inside Me are given a simple blue uniform and led to their small, 5-square-meter rooms. The setup includes:
- A yoga mat
- A small desk
- A kettle for tea
- A toilet inside the room
No clocks, no mirrors, and no distractions. Meals are delivered through a small opening in the door, similar to an actual prison. Guests follow a strict schedule that includes meditation, journaling, and complete silence.
The Philosophy Behind the ‘Prison’
The idea was founded by a South Korean lawyer, Noh Ji-Hyang, who was struggling with overwork and stress. She and her husband built Prison Inside Me in 2013, realizing that sometimes, the best way to find freedom is through isolation.
“Ironically, locking yourself up can be the key to finding real peace. Many of our visitors say this is the only place where they truly feel free,” said Noh in an interview.
Who Visits This Retreat?
A surprising range of people check into this prison for relaxation:
- Overworked professionals who need a break from corporate pressure
- University students dealing with academic stress
- Social media addicts who want to detox from digital life
- People going through personal struggles like heartbreak or grief
Many return multiple times, saying the experience has helped them reset their minds and bodies.
The Growing Trend of ‘Voluntary Confinement’
The concept of a prison for relaxation has sparked international interest. Similar retreats have been introduced in Japan, China, and even parts of Europe. Mental health experts believe that these experiences help people step away from distractions and find clarity in their thoughts.
However, critics argue that such extreme measures show just how intense modern stress levels have become, especially in South Korea, where work hours are among the longest in the world.
Final Thoughts: Can Isolation Heal the Mind?
For some, the idea of voluntarily locking themselves up sounds extreme. But for those who have tried it, the experience is life-changing. In a world where we are always connected, always expected to perform, sometimes, true peace comes from stepping away and embracing silence.
For more insights on mental health and unique wellness trends, check out our article on mindfulness practices around the world.
