Working Time Japanese fear return to punishing work culture after PM’s 3am meeting Could workaholic new leader Sanae Takaichi embolden bosses to abandon work-life balance? iStock.com/Natee Meepian Image Chantelle Cloete Reporter Friday 21 November 2025 In a country that tragically invented the term “karoshi” – death by overwork – the news of a 3am staff meeting, held by newly-appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, was never going to la Get AccessContinue reading International Employment LawyerAlready have access? Login now Email Enter your email address. Password Enter the password that accompanies your email address. Reset your passwordLog in Need access? Find out how to enjoy unlimited accessGet access You might also like... Politics Back to work: Is Japan’s new leader about to revive old ideas? Harassment Japan suicide settlement includes CEO resignation Wellbeing Japan proposes ban on working 14 consecutive days Mental Health 7-Eleven manager dies after working half a year straight