In today’s fast-paced global economy, the pressure to perform at work can sometimes push people to their limits. But in Japan, this phenomenon has a name: karoshi, literally meaning “death from overwork.” Coined in the 1970s, karoshi refers to fatalities caused by excessive work-related stress, leading to heart attacks, strokes, or even suicides driven by mental health breakdowns. It’s not just a medical issue—it’s a deep-rooted cultural and societal problem that highlights the dark side of Japan’s renowned work ethic.
As we step into 2025, karoshi remains a pressing concern, despite ongoing reforms. According to recent reports, cases of work-related deaths and disorders have hit record highs, with over 1,300 recognized instances in the latest data. This blog post dives deep into why karoshi is so prevalent in Japan, exploring its causes, backed by up-to-date statistics and real-life examples. We’ll also compare it to global trends and discuss potential solutions. Whether you’re an expat working in Japan, a business leader managing international teams, or simply curious about work-life balance worldwide, understanding karoshi offers valuable insights into the human cost of hustle culture.
What is Karoshi (過労死)? A Brief Overview
Karoshi encompasses deaths from cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks or strokes, often triggered by chronic fatigue, sleep deprivation, and unrelenting stress. It also includes karojisatsu—suicide due to overwork-induced mental disorders such as depression. The term gained international attention in the late 20th century, but its roots trace back to Japan’s post-World War II economic miracle, where long hours became synonymous with loyalty and success.
Unlike burnout, which is reversible with rest, karoshi is fatal. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes overwork as a global occupational hazard, estimating that long working hours contribute to 745,000 deaths annually worldwide. In Japan, however, it’s particularly acute due to cultural norms that glorify endurance and self-sacrifice. The Japanese government officially acknowledges karoshi through workers’ compensation claims, but many cases go unreported due to stigma or lack of awareness.
Historical Context: How Karoshi Became a National Issue
Japan’s economic boom in the 1960s and 1970s transformed it into a global powerhouse, but at a steep human cost. The oil crisis of 1973 led to widespread restructurings, forcing employees to work harder with fewer resources. The first documented karoshi case dates back to 1969, involving a 29-year-old shipping department worker who died from a stroke after excessive overtime.
By the 1980s, karoshi was making headlines, prompting the formation of support groups like the National Defense Counsel for Victims of Karoshi. High-profile lawsuits, such as the 1991 Dentsu case where a young employee committed suicide after months of grueling hours, forced companies and the government to take notice. In 2014, Japan enacted the Karoshi Prevention Act, mandating awareness campaigns and counseling services. Yet, despite these efforts, the problem persists, exacerbated by economic stagnation, an aging population, and the COVID-19 pandemic’s shift to remote work, which blurred boundaries even further.
Key Causes of Karoshi in Japan
Why does Japan struggle with karoshi more than most countries? The answer lies in a toxic mix of cultural, economic, and systemic factors. Let’s break them down.
1. Deep-Rooted Work Culture and Long Hours
Japanese corporate culture often equates long hours with dedication. Phrases like “ganbaru” (to persevere) and the expectation of “service overtime” (unpaid extra work) normalize exhaustion. A 2025 survey reveals that about one in ten workers logs over 80 hours of overtime monthly—a threshold strongly linked to karoshi. This isn’t just about time; it’s about a mindset where leaving early is seen as disloyalty.
Post-bubble economy layoffs in the 1990s left companies understaffed, piling more work on fewer employees. Today, with Japan’s labor shortage—exacerbated by a declining birthrate and only 3% foreign workers—employees face immense pressure. Commuting in crowded trains for hours adds to the fatigue, turning daily life into a grind.
2. High Stress and Psychological Burden
Stress from unrealistic deadlines, hierarchical pressures, and power harassment (pawa hara) is rampant. Managers often micromanage, leading to burnout. Mental health issues, once taboo, now account for the majority of karoshi claims. Factors like job insecurity, low wages relative to living costs, and customer harassment (kasu hara) compound the problem.
In a society where conformity is prized, seeking help is stigmatized. Many suffer in silence, leading to depression and, tragically, suicide. The government’s 2024 white paper notes a record rise in work-related mental health disorders, attributing it to these psychosocial strains.
3. Inadequate Legal and Corporate Safeguards
The 2019 Work Style Reform Law capped overtime at 720 hours annually (about 60 hours monthly), but enforcement is lax. “Hidden overtime” persists, and exemptions for certain industries weaken the rules. Social norms discourage taking paid leave; Japan has one of the lowest vacation usage rates globally.
Economic pressures, including global competition, push companies to prioritize productivity over well-being. Small businesses, in particular, struggle to hire, perpetuating the cycle.
4. Broader Societal Factors
Japan’s aging population means fewer young workers, increasing the burden on the existing workforce. Gender roles also play a part—women, often in precarious part-time roles, face double duties at home and work. Foreign workers, now at 2.05 million, are vulnerable to exploitation, with some karoshi cases reported among them.
Latest Statistics: Karoshi in Numbers for 2025
The numbers paint a grim picture. In 2025, Japan recognized 1,304 cases of overwork-related deaths and health disorders—the highest on record. Of these, 1,055 involved mental health issues, including 88 suicides or attempts. Brain and heart diseases accounted for 249 cases.
From 2015 to 2023, 38 public school teachers died from karoshi, highlighting its spread to education. Overall suicides linked to work problems total 2,875 in recent years. While men dominate the statistics, women and young people are increasingly affected.
A Forbes report notes that 62% of employees feel more stressed in 2025 than last year, amplifying karoshi risks. 0 Experts believe official figures undercount, as many families avoid pursuing claims due to shame or bureaucracy.
Famous Karoshi Cases: Real Stories Behind the Statistics
Personal tragedies bring karoshi’s horror to life. Here are some notable examples:
- The 1991 Dentsu Case: A 24-year-old advertising executive at Dentsu Inc. committed suicide after enduring over 130 hours of monthly overtime and harassment. The Supreme Court ruled it work-related, setting a precedent and sparking national debate.
- Matsuri Takahashi (2015): Another Dentsu employee, aged 24, took her life after 105 overtime hours and verbal abuse. Her mother’s public campaign led to the company’s CEO resigning and accelerated work reforms.
- Toyota Engineer (2002): A 37-year-old died of acute heart failure after 144 overtime hours. The 2007 ruling awarded compensation, exposing issues in manufacturing.
- Miwa Sado (2013): An NHK journalist died from congestive heart failure after 159 overtime hours in one month. Revealed in 2017, it underscored media industry pressures.
- Recent Mitsubishi Electric Cases: Over eight years, five employees committed suicide due to stress and harassment, prompting investigations.
These stories aren’t isolated; Japan Post reported 27 sudden deaths since 2001. They illustrate how overwork destroys lives across sectors.
Global Comparisons: Is Karoshi Unique to Japan?
While Japan coined the term, overwork deaths occur worldwide. South Korea has “gwarosa,” with longer average hours than Japan. In the US, stress-related deaths are rising, though without a specific label. China reports “guolaosi,” fueled by the “996” culture (9am-9pm, six days a week).
OECD data shows Japanese workers average 1,513 hours annually—less than Mexico’s 2,137 but more than Germany’s 1,349. However, Japan’s low productivity per hour suggests inefficiency drives long hours. In Europe, strict regulations like the EU’s 48-hour workweek limit prevent similar epidemics.
Globally, the WHO links 745,000 annual deaths to long hours, with Asia hardest hit. Japan’s case warns others: without cultural shifts, karoshi could spread.
Societal and Economic Impacts
Karoshi costs Japan dearly. Economically, lost productivity and compensation claims run into billions. Socially, it contributes to low birthrates—women delay families due to career fears—and mental health crises. With an aging society, fewer workers mean more strain, potentially shrinking GDP.
On a human level, families are shattered. Widows like Emiko Takahashi (Matsuri’s mother) advocate for change, but grief lingers. Businesses face reputational damage, deterring talent.
Prevention and Reforms: Hope on the Horizon?
Japan is innovating. The 2018 Work Style Reform Act caps overtime and promotes flexible hours. Companies like Microsoft Japan trialed four-day weeks, boosting productivity by 40%. AI and automation reduce workloads, while apps monitor stress.
Government white papers push awareness, with counseling hotlines like “Karoshi 110.” Annual working hours have dropped 11.6% recently. For individuals: prioritize sleep, seek therapy, and set boundaries.
Internationally, lessons from Japan inspire policies like France’s “right to disconnect.”
Conclusion: Toward a Healthier Work Future
Karoshi isn’t just Japan’s problem—it’s a global wake-up call against glorifying overwork. In 2025, with record cases, urgent action is needed. By fostering cultures of balance, we can prevent tragedies and build sustainable economies.
If you’re facing work stress, remember: your health comes first.
