Interviewer: Hello, Mr. Park! Congratulations on winning the 2025 Space-Out Competition. What is “spacing out” to you?

Byung-jin Park: Thanks! For me, it’s organizing my thoughts and feelings. Last weekend, I was busy working. I thought, “I really need to space out.” Everyone should find time to do it. It helps clear your mind.

Interviewer: Did you have a plan for the competition?

Byung-jin Park: I didn’t think I’d win. I did slow breathing to stay calm.

Interviewer: What did you think about during the 90 minutes?

Byung-jin Park: At first, I wanted to think about work. But the loud host and big audience made it hard. That actually helped me empty my mind. The hardest part was just sitting and doing nothing.

Interviewer: Why do people struggle with doing nothing now?

Byung-jin Park: Smartphones are a big reason. People look at their phones all the time — even on the subway. We love quick fun from lots of apps. We forgot how to do nothing.

Interviewer: What advice do you have for people who want to slow down?

Byung-jin Park: Try to space out for 5 or 10 minutes a week. At first, you’ll worry about tasks. But soon, your thoughts will calm down. You might see things more clearly.

Interviewer: Will you keep spacing out?

Byung-jin Park: Yes! I want to do it with my family. I also want to join the competition next year.

1. 1. What is “spacing out” in the interview?

A    Doing breathing exercises.

B    Having many fast thoughts.

C    Letting your mind rest and doing nothing.

D    Making plans for work.

2. 2. How did Byung-jin Park feel about winning?

A    He was angry.

B    He was surprised.

C    He felt bored.

D    He felt worried.

3. 3. Why couldn’t Park think about work at the beginning?

A    Because it was too loud.

B    Because it was too quiet.

C    Because he forgot his work.

D    Because he was too tired.

4. 4. What problem do people have today according to Park?

A    They seldom use phones.

B    They never try to slow down.

C    They like working on the subway.

D    They use their phones too much.

5. 5. What will Byung-jin Park do in the future?

A    Quit his job for more competitions.

B    Take part in the competition again.

C    Travel to different countries.

D    Delete all his apps.