Heart Attack Survivor’s Focus on Work Highlights China’s Strainful Work Culture

A man in his 40s, who suffered a heart attack at a railway station in Changsha, Hunan province, has sparked widespread discussion about China’s intense work culture after his immediate concern, once he regained consciousness, was to return to work. His reaction has prompted a broader reflection on the pressures faced by Chinese workers, who often feel compelled to prioritise work over personal well-being.

On February 4, the final day of the Spring Festival holiday, the man collapsed at the station while waiting for a high-speed train. Railway staff and an on-site doctor rushed to his aid, stabilising him after a tense 20 minutes. However, despite his critical condition, his first words were, “I need to take the high-speed train to go to work,” illustrating the extent of the work-first mentality pervasive in China’s workforce.

Despite advice from medical professionals to seek hospital care, he initially resisted, fearing that taking time off would delay his return to the office. Eventually, after persistent persuasion from the doctor, he agreed to be transported to the hospital. His reluctance highlights the pressure employees feel to remain productive, even when faced with serious health risks.

This incident resonates with many, revealing a structural issue in China’s fast-paced work environment, where job security and workplace expectations often take precedence over personal health. With an unemployment rate of around 16% among young people and economic uncertainty, many workers are increasingly driven by the fear that missing work could cost them their jobs.

The man’s actions reflect a broader societal issue in China, where overwork, particularly in the form of the “996 culture” (working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week), has led to numerous reports of sudden deaths linked to excessive hours. A 2016 China Daily report estimated that around 600,000 people die annually due to overwork, highlighting the dangerous consequences of such a work environment.

The incident has gone viral on social media, with users expressing both sympathy and criticism of China’s demanding work culture. Many commenters pointed out the harsh realities of the competitive job market, where thousands of candidates vie for a single position, leaving little room for personal life or health. This story has also sparked a global conversation about work-life balance, with many recognising that high-pressure work environments are not unique to China but are a growing issue worldwide.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the extreme demands placed on employees in today’s fast-paced world. It underscores the urgent need for a better work-life balance and a shift in workplace policies to prioritise employee well-being. If left unaddressed, incidents like this could become more frequent, with devastating long-term effects for both individuals and society.