Copycat Climbers Attempt Taipei 101 Feat, All Fail at Ground Levels and Draw Online Mockery
A wave of copycat attempts to scale Taipei 101 has surfaced online after renewed attention on legendary climber Alex Honnold’s past free-solo ascent of the iconic skyscraper. However, unlike the world-famous climber, those inspired to imitate the feat barely made it off the ground, with several attempts reportedly ending at or near the first floor.
Short video clips and social media posts circulating in recent days show individuals trying to climb the exterior of Taipei 101, often without proper equipment, training, or footwear. Netizens were quick to notice that some were wearing everyday sneakers and casual clothing, sparking widespread ridicule rather than admiration. Many online commenters described the attempts as reckless, embarrassing, and a clear misunderstanding of what made Honnold’s climb exceptional.
Alex Honnold is known globally for his extreme free-solo climbs, which involve scaling massive structures or natural rock faces without ropes or safety gear. His success is widely attributed to years of elite training, extraordinary physical conditioning, and an uncommon level of mental discipline. Observers pointed out that simply mimicking the act, without the skill set, only highlights the vast gap between professional climbers and thrill-seeking imitators.
WHY TAIPEI 101 CLIMB ATTEMPTS ARE RAISING SAFETY CONCERNS
The failed attempts have prompted renewed discussions around public safety, urban security, and the risks of social media-driven stunts. Taipei 101 is not only a tourist landmark but also a functioning commercial building with offices, observation decks, and daily foot traffic. Unauthorised climbing poses risks not just to the individuals involved, but also to pedestrians and property.
Online reactions ranged from sarcastic humour to genuine concern. Some commenters joked about “monkey see, monkey do” behaviour, while others warned that all it takes is one slip for such antics to turn fatal. A recurring theme in the comments was disbelief that anyone would attempt such a dangerous act without professional training or safety precautions.
In Singapore, where high-rise buildings and strict safety regulations are the norm, similar stunts would likely attract swift enforcement action. Urban climbing, sometimes referred to as “buildering”, has been flagged globally as a growing trend tied to viral content and online attention-seeking. Insurance experts and property managers have repeatedly cautioned against these acts due to liability and public safety implications.
SOCIAL MEDIA FAME VS REAL-LIFE CONSEQUENCES
The episode also underscores how viral moments can distort public perception of risk. While Alex Honnold’s climb is often celebrated, it is rarely emphasised that his achievements come after decades of specialised training and calculated risk assessment. Experts note that portraying such feats without context can encourage dangerous imitation, especially among younger audiences.
Several online users highlighted that true appreciation of such extreme sports lies in understanding the discipline behind them, not blindly copying the end result. Others expressed hope that authorities would step in before a serious accident occurs.
As urban skylines become backdrops for online stunts, the Taipei 101 incident serves as a reminder that chasing viral fame can come at a very real cost. For most people, the lift remains the safest and smartest way to reach the top.