100 YEARS of WORK in JAPAN
A SEGA Genesis-like pixel art video by Motocross Saito, depicting the work culture in Japan throughout the years called, Hataraku no Hyaunenshi or 100 Years of Work in Japan.
1920s, when the term, “salaryman” first emerged.
1930s, where women first joined the workforce known as “shokugyo fujin” or lady professionals.
1940s, transitioning into the post-war era.
1950s, working towards an economically stable society after the war.
1960s, the launch of Shinkansen bullet train marks the beginning of a new era.
1970s, becoming a developed country means overcrowded trains of workers.
1980s, the emergence of “kigyo senshi” or “company warrior”, who worked overtime long after the sun has gone down during the “Bubble Economy”. This is where, “Karoshi” or “Death from Overwork” began. Japan's rise from the devastation of World War II to economic prominence and the huge war reparations they have paid in the post-war decades have been regarded as the trigger for what has been called a new epidemic.
Still 1980s, even if work finishes late at night, there are still after work events like “Nomikai” or “After Work Drinking” as part of the company’s solidarity building and networking.
1990s, mobile communication devices and more women entering the workforce become permanent part of professional life in Japan.
2000s-2010s, laptop devices creates a breed of “nomad worker” who spend their time working outside of their office. Workers smoking at their work desks may have been a common sight in the 80s, but now it is even rare to see smokers in public spaces as there are “no smoking” signs almost everywhere.
2020s, Japan adapted to a new normal after WWII and now it is adapting again to a new normal after the coronavirus pandemic breakout.
2020s, now working from home has started becoming a new normal.
My Thoughts:
To me, the 80s is the most interesting of all, as this is where the bad work culture of Japan that we know of today, first started. In an attempt to build a better future to avoid the errors of WWII, Japan is seen as an advanced technology powerhouse with its electronics and manufacturing products scattered around the world.
Despite being seen as an advanced society, it is also fast becoming a souless one, as "company warriors” dedicate their lives to the companies like a Samurai to a clan, working extremely hard at the expense of their social lives and health, which explains, how or why cyberpunk films are based and inspired by this era of Japan.
More of such Japanese Related trivia on SoraNews24
