Japan has decided to curb obligatory overtime, with the new regulations taking effect from September 1. This legislative change follows longstanding concerns about overwork in Japan, often leading to health issues and impacting employees' work-life balance negatively. The new rule highlights the government's decision to prioritize employee health and wellbeing over work productivity, a significant cultural shift in a country known for its rigorous work ethics.

Japan's work culture is notorious for its long hours and "death by overwork," dubbed as 'karoshi.' The new legislation challenging the norm of overtime is seen as a significant step towards a more balanced work culture. It's a contentious issue in Japan, with traditionalists viewing long working hours as dedication and commitment, while a growing number of people believe it harms productivity, mental health, and family life.

While the US and EU have stringent laws against overwork, it's far less culturally ingrained in these regions compared to Japan. Regular overtime is less common, and balance between work and personal life is more valued. In EU, the Working Time Directive restricts employees to a maximum of 48 hours per week, including overtime.