That's a "stand" on the spatula - not a hook

"My utensils are like the one here, it is a stand. But most people who come over think it's to stop it sliding into the pot. However, the centre of gravity is behind the stand to make it stand up. I can't tell you how many times people have put it outside the pot like you would and it falls out and flicks food everywhere..."

"The centre of gravity might be specifically designed to NOT allow it to sit in the pan. Spatulas are safe to use to quickly stir or flip food, but will melt at high heat if left in the pan."