In a surprising revelation, Ekkachai and Laksana Tiranarat, the Thai couple who made history with an astonishing 58-hour kiss, have announced their separation. The couple, who achieved global recognition for setting the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss in February 2013, have now parted ways, marking the end of a relationship that once captivated millions. Their record-breaking feat, which required unwavering endurance, physical resilience, and immense dedication, secured them a place in history, making them symbols of commitment and determination.
Reflecting on their journey, Ekkachai spoke on the BBC Sounds podcast Witness History, where he expressed pride in their achievement despite the end of their marriage. “I am very proud. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We spent a long time together, and I’m trying to remember the good memories and that we did this together,” he shared. Their marathon kiss, which lasted an exhausting 58 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds, was a test of both love and endurance. However, their personal relationship could not withstand the passage of time, leading them to go their separate ways.
Their journey to world record fame began in 2011 when they first participated in a competition to set the record for the longest kiss. At the time, the existing record stood at 32 hours and seven minutes. Despite initial hesitations, particularly due to Laksana’s recent recovery from illness, they were enticed by the prospect of winning 50,000 Thai Baht and a diamond ring. Their first attempt saw them surpass all competitors, locking lips for 46 hours and 24 minutes to claim the title. However, their victory was short-lived as, in 2012, two Thai men—Nonthawat Charoenkaesornsin and Thanakorn Sitthiamthong—set a new record by kissing for 50 hours and 25 minutes, dethroning the couple.
Determined to reclaim their title, Ekkachai and Laksana returned in 2013, embarking on what would become their most grueling challenge yet. The rules for the competition were stringent, lips had to remain in contact at all times, couples were required to remain awake throughout the attempt, and they had to remain standing, without any external support or props to lean on. Even bathroom breaks required them to maintain their kiss, adding another level of difficulty. Speaking about the intense nature of the event, Ekkachai recalled feeling lightheaded, with spectators even handing him an inhaler to help him endure the experience. “There were a lot of people there. There were around 14 couples competing and a lot of media hovering around them. I felt like I was going to faint; some of the spectators handed me an inhaler to support me along the way,” he shared.
As the competition progressed, exhaustion took its toll. Many participants collapsed, unable to sustain the challenge. By the time 20 hours had passed, Ekkachai admitted he could barely stand. However, it was Laksana who motivated him to continue, telling him, “We need to keep fighting.” Their resilience paid off, and when their final competitor failed to maintain contact and fell asleep, Ekkachai knew they had won. “Only crazy people would accomplish something like that. A normal person wouldn’t try it,” he humorously recalled telling family and friends after their victory.
The Guinness World Record officials confirmed their extraordinary feat, declaring them the winners with an unmatched time of 58 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds. This achievement solidified their place in history, making them the final holders of the title. Shortly after their victory, the Guinness World Records organization decided to deactivate the longest kiss category, citing safety concerns and changes in their policies. This meant that Ekkachai and Laksana would forever remain the reigning champions, with their record never to be broken.
Despite the incredible achievement and the bond they shared during those challenging hours, time eventually wore down their relationship. Their separation, though unexpected, serves as a reminder that endurance in love is not just about monumental gestures but also about the journey beyond them. While their record-breaking moment remains a testament to human resilience and determination, their story now stands as a bittersweet reflection on love, endurance, and the unpredictable nature of relationships.
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