Kissing contest to be held in Gwanghwamun

/ Courtesy of Facebook

A contest to determine which couple can keep their lips together the longest will be held in central Seoul, Saturday.

Though people suspect the event might just be a hoax, the host of the Longest Kissing Contest, Park Jung-il said, "The competition is fierce, and it’s really taking place," adding that many people online have already questioned the validity of the event.

Park says that currently 200 people have signed up to participate in the smooching contest. Everyone is welcome, he says, with an admission fee of 5,000 won ($4.49).

Whoever's lips stay attached to their designated partner's for the longest will be the winner of about 1 million won ($899.08).

"Too many people are focused on online activities, possibly leading to social crimes," said Park, explaining his reason for hosting this event. "I wanted to change the people's perception to life and society, and deliver that we are meant to love, not to misunderstand nor be afraid of."

"I think it's sad that people think nowhere else beyond messengers, Facebook, and other mobile applications," says Park. "Many people say that the scariest thing about this planet is ourselves."

The total amount of cash collected from the participants' admission fees will go straight into the winner's pockets.

Those interested can take part by sending their name, number, and relationship status to the Facebook page, “Now Join Us.”

More information is available on https://www.facebook.com/groups/nowjoinus/