The Dark Side of Efficiency: How Japan's "Black Companies" Exploit Workers
By: Gabrielle Gunawan
Edited by: Angelina Gaol
Amidst the glimmering lights and bustling streets of Tokyo lies a troubling reality hidden beneath the surface. Burakku kigyō or Japanese “Black Companies”, notorious for their unethical treatment of employees, shed light on broader concerns surrounding worker rights and corporate responsibility. These corporations prioritise profit over the well-being of their workforce, contributing to mental health issues, social inequalities, and broader debates about the ethics of global capitalism. Despite the growing awareness of workplace reforms and corporate compliance, many Japanese companies still operate with exploitative labour practices. According to a nationwide survey, 38.6% of respondents reported working for or currently being employed by a "black corporation," showcasing the persistent prevalence of such entities within the country.
The survey revealed alarming insights into the culture of these black corporations, with a notable percentage of employees willing to engage in dishonest or illegal activities if coerced by their employers. Furthermore, the high turnover rates, long working hours, and prevalence of unpaid overtime underscore the exploitative nature of these workplaces. Employees often find themselves trapped in a cycle of overwork and exhaustion, with little recourse for addressing their concerns due to fear of retaliation or lack of support from management.
Tragically, the extreme work culture prevalent in black corporations has led to cases of karoshi, or death due to overwork, prompting the establishment of the National Defense Counsel for Victims of Karoshi. Despite efforts to mitigate the consequences of overwork, the fundamental issue lies in addressing the root causes of stress and exploitation within these companies. Since its inception in 2012, the annual Black Company Awards, despite its deceptive title, aims to expose and raise awareness about problematic practices within these corporations. However, much work remains to be done to hold accountable those responsible for perpetuating such harmful working conditions.
Nevertheless, Japan actually often addresses these issues through various mediums, including popular culture like anime. One such example is "Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead," a manga and anime series created by Japan that uses humor and euphemism to explore themes of mental health and societal pressures.
In "Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead," the protagonist Akira finds himself trapped in the mundane and oppressive world of a black company, where he toils away in a soul-crushing job with little hope for escape. Akira's experience in a black company serves as a reflection of the harsh realities faced by many Japanese workers who endure long hours, low wages, and exploitative practices in their workplaces.
However, when a zombie apocalypse upends his world, Akira discovers an unexpected liberation from the monotonous cycle of corporate drudgery. Embracing the chaos and uncertainty of the apocalypse, he embarks on a quest to create a "bucket list" of experiences to fulfill before succumbing to the undead horde. Through Akira's journey and encounters with fellow survivors, the series deftly navigates themes of depression, anxiety, and societal.
Hence, although Japan may have made strides in addressing these issues, the journey towards mitigating them is far from over. The intertwined problems of black companies and mental health underscore the urgent need for systemic change and social reform in the country. While efforts to promote ethical business practices and prioritize worker welfare are commendable, there remains much to be done to destigmatize mental health care and address the root causes of workplace exploitation. It is imperative for Japan to continue its commitment to fundamental human rights and collective action, ensuring a more equitable and compassionate society for both present and future generations.