Generation Z continues to make its presence felt, through their prioritisation of work-life balance and, in East Asia at least, a growing disillusionment with the corporate rat race.
Recent reports paint a vivid picture of a workforce increasingly at odds with the rigid hierarchies and demanding work hours that characterise many corporate environments in countries like Japan, South Korea and China.
The Disengagement Dilemma
Across East Asia, engagement levels among young workers are alarmingly low. A Gallup survey highlights that only 18% of under-35s in East Asia feel engaged at work, a stark contrast to the 23% global average. Japan and Hong Kong are particularly low, with engagement levels near the bottom of the global rankings. This disillusionment is palpable, as more young professionals grapple with a work culture that often prioritises long hours and presence over productivity and well-being.
Protests and Unions: A New Wave of Activism
In response to their dissatisfaction, many young workers are turning to activism. In South Korea, for instance, a significant protest erupted earlier this year when thousands of doctors opposed government plans to increase medical school admissions. The strikes at Samsung Electronics in June, led primarily by younger employees, marked a historic moment for the company. Research indicates that Generation MZ – a blend of Millennials and Gen Z– is more inclined to support labour unions and view activism as a means to improve working conditions.
Emigration and Escape Routes
While some workers are choosing to stand and fight, others are looking beyond their national borders. In China, a growing trend of “Run”, a term that plays on the homophonic similarity to the English word “run”, reflects a desire to escape the country’s faltering economy and harsh working conditions. Japanese workers are also seeking refuge abroad, with many opting for working-holiday visas in Australia. For some, even the prospect of low-wage, physically demanding jobs in another country seems preferable to the grind of the Japanese corporate world.
Lying Flat and the Art of Minimal Effort
In China, a concept known as “lying flat” has emerged as a form of rebellion against the relentless pressures of modern life. This attitude involves opting out of the high-stakes competition and pursuing a more relaxed lifestyle. The trend has even extended to “disgusting work outfits”, where young employees share photos of their deliberately low-effort office attire. This cultural shift signals a broader move towards disengagement and a refusal to conform to traditional work expectations.
A Glimmer of Change
Amid the discontent and activism, there are signs that some corporate and political leaders are beginning to acknowledge these issues. Recent apologies from Baidu’s public relations head for her 24/7 contactability demands and South Korea’s President Yoon Suk-yeol abandoning plans to extend the workweek reflect a growing sensitivity to worker concerns. In Japan and Singapore, leaders like Prime Ministers Kishida Fumio and Lawrence Wong have pledged to introduce more worker-friendly policies.
The Road Ahead
Despite these small victories, change is slow and uneven. Traditional attitudes persist, with senior executives often clinging to outdated norms.
Generation Z’s impact on the workforce is undeniable, as their dissatisfaction drives both activism and change. However, the path to a more flexible and engaging work environment is still unfolding, and it will take time for the ripple effects of this generational shift to fully transform the landscape of work in East Asia and beyond.