Do you really know? What is Karoshi, the dangerous overwork epidemic?
Mar 30, 2026
A quick look at karoshi, the phenomenon of death from extreme overwork and its medical recognition. Traces how Japan’s postwar boom and workplace culture normalized excessive hours. Explores how the issue spread globally and the cultural drivers that keep overtime entrenched. Covers legal reforms, enforcement gaps, and why changing attitudes matters.
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Karoshi Defined And Its Postwar Roots
- Karoshi means death by overwork, describing sudden stroke or heart attack caused by extreme stress and long hours.
- Joseph Chance links the term to Japan's post-WWII boom when long hours and salaryman culture became widespread.
Medical Recognition And Ongoing Prevalence
- Karoshi was named in 1982 by three doctors who observed many sudden deaths tied to overwork.
- Since 1970 Japan has recognised overwork as an occupational disease and 22% still work over 50 hours weekly (OECD).
From Japanese Phenomenon To Global Problem
- Karoshi evolved from a perceived cultural peculiarity to a global issue linked to stress, long hours, and economic models.
- Wired's 2021 reporting traced the spread of overwork patterns beyond Japan into international workplaces.