This marks the first attempt to climb the building in such a perilous manner. The event will be broadcast live globally on Netflix with a 10-second delay, allowing for an emergency cut if any incident occurs.

Plimsoll Productions is producing the program, utilizing a complex filming system that includes elevator-hopping mobile cameras, drones, remote cameras, and even tracking helicopters. Organizers have also implemented a "two-tick" safety system, a two-layer safety check mechanism, meaning the climb requires approval from both Alex and the production team.

Alex poses with the Taipei 101 tower in the background. Photo: *Netflix*

Alex is renowned for his previous free solo ascent of El Capitan, a rock face approximately 900 meters high. This climb was documented in the film *Free Solo*, which won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature in 2019. This achievement cemented his status as an icon of extreme sports, recognized for his extraordinary fear control and focus.

Unlike previous climbs meticulously edited into films, this event offers viewers a real-time experience. Netflix has promoted it as a "high-stakes live broadcast."

Alex shared that the greatest challenge is the accumulating fatigue as he ascends. The building's structure is more vertical than most natural rock faces, offering few resting points. He will begin at the base of Taipei 101, the easiest section, designed as a slab—a slightly inclined flat surface. Above this, the climb becomes significantly more difficult. The middle section features "bamboo boxes," 8 stacked blocks, each 8 stories high, resembling vertical bamboo segments. Each block includes an overhang, causing the wall to lean outwards and making grips harder. The uppermost section presents an even greater challenge, with overhangs so steep that Alex will rely almost entirely on upper body strength to pull himself up, with his legs dangling. At the summit, a small platform, approximately 1,2 meters wide, awaits, just enough space for him to stand upright.

Alex explained that the main difference between climbing a building and rock climbing is the absence of overly complex maneuvers. However, accumulating fatigue makes the experience less predictable. "Climbing a building demands muscular endurance; repeated movements cause muscles to tire faster, even if the technique might be simpler than natural rock climbing", he stated.

Alex first conceived the idea of free soloing Taipei 101 in 2013, even conducting surveys and tests in 2014. However, the project was canceled and remained dormant for over 10 years until maximum safety measures could be guaranteed.

By Hoai Anh (According to Netflix, Olympics, Evrim Agaci)