What is Hikikomori - the phenomenon leading to loneliness in Japan? | World News | Times Of Ahmedabad

A new phenomenon of isolation known as ‘Hikikomori’ or ‘Shut-ins’ is rapidly spreading in Japan – leading to nearly 1.5 million Japanese people of working age living as social recluses, revealed a government survey. According to the survey, around a fifth of the isolation cases have been cited to the Covid-19 pandemic, reported AFP.

Hikikomori refers to a social withdrawal phenomenon where people – especially young adults – withdraw from social interaction and isolate themselves.

Notably, in 2021, Japan had appointed a ‘Minister of Loneliness’ who was overseeing government policies to deal with loneliness and isolation.