Cracking the Code of ‘996’ as One of China’s Most Controversial Buzzwords

If you've been anywhere near tech news or Chinese social media in the last few years, you’ve probably heard the term ‘996’. No, it’s not a new phone model or a secret government code—it’s a work culture phenomenon that’s sparked outrage, debate, and even legal scrutiny across China and beyond.

So what exactly is ‘996’? Simply put: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., 6 days a week. That’s a brutal 72-hour workweek—compared to the standard 40-hour week in most developed countries. And yes, it’s as exhausting as it sounds.

This practice became especially widespread in China’s booming tech sector, where companies like Alibaba, JD.com, and Tencent were rumored (or confirmed) to enforce or encourage this grueling schedule under the guise of ‘hustle culture.’ Jack Ma once famously defended it, saying those who embrace 996 are "fortunate"—a statement that went viral for all the wrong reasons.

Why Is ‘996’ So Controversial?

Besides being physically and mentally draining, the 996 work model often violates China’s labor laws. The country’s official workweek is 40 hours, with overtime capped at 36 hours per month. Working 72 hours weekly shatters that limit—by over 80%.

The backlash exploded on platforms like GitHub, where the 996.ICU project went viral. The name? A dark joke: “Work 996, end up in the ICU.” Thousands joined the protest, sharing stories of burnout, health issues, and lost personal time.

Data Doesn’t Lie: The Real Cost of 996

Let’s break it down with some hard numbers:

*Estimated based on average tech salary in Beijing. Many 996 workers receive no extra pay.

The Turning Point: Government Steps In

In 2021, China’s Supreme Court officially ruled that the 996 schedule is illegal. This was a watershed moment. Suddenly, companies pushing mandatory 996 faced real legal risk. Some, like Pinduoduo and ByteDance, began adjusting policies—though enforcement remains spotty.

Still, the cultural shift is slow. Hustle culture runs deep. Many young professionals feel pressured to comply, fearing they’ll be passed over for promotions or labeled ‘not committed enough.’

What Can Workers Do?

• Know your rights: China’s Labor Law guarantees rest days and overtime compensation.
• Document everything: Keep records of hours worked—vital if disputes arise.
• Speak up (safely): Use anonymous forums or union channels to report abuse.
• Prioritize health: Long-term, no job is worth chronic stress or illness.

Ultimately, the 996 debate isn’t just about work hours—it’s about dignity, balance, and sustainability. As global attention grows, pressure mounts for real change. The message is clear: productivity shouldn’t come at the cost of people’s lives.