Japan is witnessing a rising trend of "retirement replacements" or "Retirement-Proxy" services, where one individual stands in for an employee wishing to retire temporarily. This shift in work culture is operational on the premise of a mutual benefit system where it provides retirees with some time off without losing their jobs, while also helping businesses to avoid manpower loss. The trend has certain complications and therefore, it's necessary to bear in mind the key considerations for employees and employers alike.

Japanese culture highly values commitment and loyalty to work, which often includes long working hours and less time off. With the demographic crisis due to a greying population, there is a high demand for manpower. The retirement replacement service is more viewed as a solution aiming to address multiple societal and economic issues. However, legality and job security are the two main concerns raised among the public.

In the US or EU, different concepts exist such as sabbaticals or extended leave of absence, part-time, or flexible work arrangements. These concepts are mostly institutionalized and labour laws in these regions usually protect the rights and job security of employees who choose these options. Unlike in Japan, it seems these societies have more defined mechanisms in place to balance work and personal life while encouraging workforce participation.