What is “Yuru-Black”? A New Challenge in Japanese Work Styles

2025.10.22

In 2013, the term “black company” was selected as one of the top 10 buzzwords in Japan. It refers to companies where long working hours and power harassment are rampant, becoming a widely recognized symbol of undesirable workplaces in Japanese society. Following work style reforms and the establishment of regulatory measures, overtime exceeding the karoshi (death from overwork) threshold has decreased, and the rate of paid leave usage has improved, indicating steady changes in Japan’s working environment.

The term “white company” has also become common, contrasting with “black company,” referring to companies with favorable working conditions such as minimal overtime, easy access to paid leave, and comprehensive employee benefits. However, in recent years, a new term, “yuru black,” has emerged, particularly among Japan’s younger generation. The term “yuru” derives from the Japanese word for “loose” or “lenient,” indicating a seemingly relaxed environment that lacks proper structure and guidance. These workplaces appear comfortable but offer monotonous tasks with limited responsibility and autonomy, making it difficult to achieve growth or a sense of accomplishment. This reflects a dilemma for young people: while they can work with peace of mind, they cannot enhance their market value.

In an interview with the Nikkei, Professor Daisuke Kanama of Kanazawa University, an expert in motivation theory, noted that companies often labeled as “yuru black” are predominantly large corporations, characterized by management practices that avoid putting pressure on young employees. Amid labor shortages and rising recruitment costs for new graduates, companies tend to prioritize retention-focused management, such as reducing overtime and establishing detailed manuals, hoping to retain their newly hired young employees. However, these seemingly welcome systems and considerations are viewed by some young people as “environments that deprive growth opportunities,” ultimately triggering their resignation. Moreover, when they compare themselves with peers and find their workplace too “yuru” (loose or lenient), they tend to feel anxious and seek transfer to companies that offer better growth opportunities.

In an era where lifetime employment is wavering and job changes are becoming commonplace, mere workplace comfort is no longer sufficient to attract young people. The term “yuru black” represents a new challenge facing Japanese companies: while they have successfully created comfortable working environments, they now need to balance this with meaningful opportunities for professional growth and development.

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