The Rise of the Lie-Flat Movement in Hong Kong: Challenging Societal Norms and Redefining Notions of Success

The “Lie-Flat movement” is a growing trend in China that promotes minimalism, leisure, and well-being as priorities over career-focused success. The article cautions the disillusioned young population of Hong Kong about the unmanageable expenses of living and the restricted upward social movement. Since 1980, the presence of inequality and limited intergenerational mobility has hindered upward mobility.

Initial followers propagated the rejection of materialism through online platforms, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life, and finding satisfaction from within. It promotes prioritizing experiences over material possessions, thereby decreasing consumerism. Public housing and welfare programs facilitate the way of life, but increasing expenses instill uncertainty in the government among the middle-class.

Keywords: Lie-Flat Movement, Work-life balance, Minimalism, Upward mobility, Government assistance.