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Coffin Homes in Hong Kong: How Do People Survive in 15-Square-Foot Spaces?

Hong Kong, a global financial hub, faces a severe housing crisis, forcing low-income residents into “coffin cubicles”—tiny, coffin-like spaces as small as 15 square feet. These cramped, often unsanitary homes reveal the dark side of one of the world’s most expensive cities.

The Harsh Reality of Coffin Cubicles
Hong Kong’s skyrocketing real estate prices and limited land have led to a shocking housing crisis. Many low-income residents, unable to afford proper homes, are forced into “coffin cubicles”—subdivided wooden or wire cages barely big enough to fit a bed.

Size & Structure: These spaces measure just 15-20 sq. ft., often combining a sleeping area, kitchen, and toilet in one cramped unit.
Living Conditions: Residents can barely stretch, sleep curled up, and live in constant discomfort.
Shockingly High Rent: Despite being inhumanely small, rent can exceed ₹20,000/month, making survival even harder.
The term “coffin cubicle” reflects the dire state of housing, where people are essentially trapped in these boxes due to poverty and lack of alternatives.

Why Does This Happen?
Population Density: Hong Kong is one of the most crowded cities globally, with limited residential land.
Sky-High Property Prices: Even tiny spaces are unaffordable for many.
No Affordable Alternatives: Government housing programs have long waiting lists, forcing people into illegal subdivisions.
Photographer Benny Lam’s documentary “Trapped” exposed these conditions, showing how residents live in spaces smaller than prison cells.

A Global Warning?
While extreme, Hong Kong’s crisis reflects a growing global issue—urban overcrowding and unaffordable housing. As cities expand, will more people face such inhumane living conditions?

FAQs About Hong Kong’s Coffin Cubicles
1. Why are they called “coffin cubicles”?
They’re named for their coffin-like size (15-20 sq. ft.), where residents can barely move or stretch.
2. How much rent do people pay for these tiny spaces?
Shockingly, some pay over ₹20,000/month despite the horrible living conditions.
3. Are coffin cubicles legal?
Many are illegal subdivisions, but authorities often turn a blind eye due to housing shortages.
4. Who lives in these coffin homes?
Mostly low-income workers, elderly, and marginalized groups with no other options.
5. Is there any solution to Hong Kong’s housing crisis?
The government has promised more public housing, but long waiting lists and slow construction keep people trapped.