Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has ignited a national discussion over work culture after reports revealed she held an official meeting at 3 AM. The incident has raised concerns about the country’s long-standing struggle with “karoshi,” or death from overwork.
According to multiple sources, Takaichi met with senior officials from her Liberal Democratic Party in the early hours of the morning. Known for her intense work ethic, the Prime Minister has claimed she can operate on as little as two hours of sleep per night and has previously suggested that people can train themselves to need less rest. Critics argue that such statements and actions risk normalizing extreme working hours.
The early-morning meeting prompted widespread reactions on social media, with many citizens expressing unease about the precedent set by a national leader. “Honestly, I’m concerned about what this signals to the workforce,” commented one widely shared post. Labor experts and advocates highlighted that the Prime Minister’s schedule could inadvertently glorify unhealthy work habits and undermine efforts to combat overwork-related health risks.
Japan has long faced challenges with karoshi. Despite laws limiting overtime and government campaigns promoting better work-life balance, a survey showed that nearly one in three Japanese companies still had employees logging more than 80 hours of overtime per month – levels considered dangerous to health.
In response to criticism, some leaders defended the Prime Minister’s dedication while emphasizing that such schedules are not recommended for the general workforce. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to policies promoting sustainable work hours and employee well-being.
The controversy surrounding Takaichi’s 3 AM meeting underscores the tension between Japan’s traditional work culture and growing public calls for healthier, more balanced labor practices. As the debate unfolds, many are reflecting on how the habits of national leaders can influence broader societal norms regarding work and personal health.
