Japan’s ‘evaporated’ people: Inside an industry that helps people disappear

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  • čas přidán 17. 03. 2023
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    In Japan, as some 80,000 people go missing every year, according to data from the National Police Agency. Some are later found, but others vanish completely, becoming what’s described as an “evaporated person” or johatsu-sha. The phenomenon is common enough to have an entire industry built around it of specialists who can help you disappear in the night. In this SCMP Film, we go inside a neighbourhood that’s a powerful draw for those who want to stay hidden and meet a yonige-ya, or night mover, who braves stalkers, gangsters and knife-wielding exes to spirit his customers away to safety.
    Related story:
    Japan ‘will disappear’ if people don’t have more babies, PM’s aide says sc.mp/tqhl
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Komentáře • 1,1K

  • @q_q123
    @q_q123 Před rokem +707

    To be able to establish an entire industry for runaway people is depressing...

    • @jimmytimmy3680
      @jimmytimmy3680 Před rokem +36

      Capitalism for you.

    • @SobaYatai
      @SobaYatai Před rokem +26

      @@jimmytimmy3680 would you rather live under Stalin or Kim Jong un.

    • @azul1964
      @azul1964 Před rokem +26

      Depressing but necessary. Similar to redlight districts. Similar to casinos. Similar to drugs

    • @willisbronze9984
      @willisbronze9984 Před rokem

      @@jimmytimmy3680 At least it can partially solve the problem for you, on some of the other country, ur dead

    • @goonhoongtatt1883
      @goonhoongtatt1883 Před rokem +36

      I was sick of the world, but didn't have the courage to die. That's the saddest sentence I've heard in years.

  • @Sjalabais
    @Sjalabais Před rokem +363

    "I was sick of the world, but I didn't have the courage to die"
    Almost 40 years later, there's still no 2nd chance for this man, and many like him. Heartbreaking, with lives wasted.

    • @lestercombs1871
      @lestercombs1871 Před rokem +5

      Takes so much to die

    • @botezsimp5808
      @botezsimp5808 Před rokem +4

      ​@@lestercombs1871 It does.. and it doesn't..

    • @MiguelDLewis
      @MiguelDLewis Před rokem +1

      @@lestercombs1871 Not if you're born again.✝

    • @krakenblast2
      @krakenblast2 Před rokem

      @@MiguelDLewis You would have to go fight demon lords if you do

    • @MiguelDLewis
      @MiguelDLewis Před rokem +1

      @@krakenblast2 There are no "demon lords". There is only one Lord. ✝

  • @t3ripley722
    @t3ripley722 Před rokem +98

    I did quite a bit of research on this phenomenon back in my university days. If anyone is interested in learning more about people and places like this, I recommend Shirō Ōyama’s “A Man With No Talents” and Edward Fowler’s “San’ya Blues.”
    The former is an anonymous autobiography that won a prestigious literary prize in Japan, and the second is a more academic but still sensitive look at Japan’s unhoused population.
    Please remember, no matter what, we are all people. We are all someone’s child and are deserving of basic dignity.

    • @viviensfilms3604
      @viviensfilms3604 Před rokem +1

      Thank you kindly. Evaporation is a eart-broken phenomenal. I'd love to learn more.

    • @MassMultiplayer
      @MassMultiplayer Před rokem +1

      hikikomori

    • @laukpauk6053
      @laukpauk6053 Před 10 měsíci +1

      I am at the lowest point of my life. No job, no money, just got divorced. I really wish I could start over and make my new life better by learning from past mistake. Thank you for the recommendation

    • @arisraz
      @arisraz Před měsícem

      Thanks for the recommendations. Sanya Blies interests me.

  • @squeeg8324
    @squeeg8324 Před rokem +1782

    This brought tears to my eyes, knowing that hundreds of people evaporate without anyone caring nor knowing where they’re going is just heartbreaking. I understand that many want to start fresh and begin a new chapter of their life but I find it so depressing that people are just forgotten by society and even by their own family…

    • @KitsGravity
      @KitsGravity Před rokem +59

      It's truly a very depressing society that we live in.

    • @Rmveber
      @Rmveber Před rokem +98

      My sister wanted to start a new life and she left back in 2012 she change phone number and vanished i miss her every day i didnt forget its more like i have given up hope we tried looking for her but no luck i think many families have given up too

    • @thisrandomperson1472
      @thisrandomperson1472 Před rokem +27

      I remember a friend telling me he once went on the black market and he came across a stream where a guy was torturing a female and people were paying him to do it. She may have been one of them but it was a Caucasian apparently, the Darkside of society is cruel but a business that will never stop

    • @naruoze
      @naruoze Před rokem +32

      People's connections are really weak in Japan. It's weird. They are unique, not like westerners or us chinese.

    • @hagdore
      @hagdore Před rokem

      ​@@naruozeCan't say much about the Westerners, but thank f@#k the Japanese are not like you Chinese.

  • @sawyerthestarling
    @sawyerthestarling Před rokem +286

    That is sad and relatable. I left home at 14 and have never been back. I'm 45 now and it was the best thing I could've done. I'm so fortunate my life didn't turn out like these two men. I live well, far better than I would've ever believed or deserve and that feeling just got deeper. I hope they find love.

    • @lalithkumar2551
      @lalithkumar2551 Před rokem +2

      What job to do when we leave and how u became big

    • @mingyuhuang8944
      @mingyuhuang8944 Před rokem

      Modern Japan is a sad, depraved, depressed, hypocritical, and constantly self-conflicting cesspool with little to no resemblance of humanity left. It is a country which focuses on the microscopical details and rules instead of tackling the grand, overarching core issues which have been rotting away for decades. It's people lack any semblance of humanity, energy and warmth. They are apathetic to each other as they drown in their own misery.😢😢😢😢

    • @ErickIsBeowulf
      @ErickIsBeowulf Před rokem +8

      @@lalithkumar2551 you don't just randomly become big, you find apprenticeship and depending on how skilled you are will determine where you end up. That will never change, starting from nothing to whatever you can personally achieve.

    • @lalithkumar2551
      @lalithkumar2551 Před rokem +1

      @@ErickIsBeowulf tell me what do you do

    • @melchezi8818
      @melchezi8818 Před rokem

      @@lalithkumar2551 Find Jesus

  • @iddop2330
    @iddop2330 Před rokem +182

    14:54 I was sick of the world but I didn’t have the courage to die… This very sad for me 😢

    • @docaz9453
      @docaz9453 Před rokem +1

      that was very true , I was wondering those only one who didnt die yet their alot who like them end up killing themselves

    • @POS36
      @POS36 Před rokem +2

      'evaporated' but appeared infront of cam again ??!

    • @naitomea6150
      @naitomea6150 Před rokem +7

      @@POS36 they probably paid him a few yen, and nobody's really looking for him so it should be ok for him appearing in front of camera to tell his story for us to take lessons from, or maybe for us to help him

    • @spagmarco
      @spagmarco Před rokem +2

      Oh. it is very human. Between suicide and starting anew on a very difficult road the latter is certainly the bravest one.

    • @Bchulo88
      @Bchulo88 Před 4 měsíci

      Especially with all the nervous/coping laughter

  • @gdeelove21
    @gdeelove21 Před rokem +447

    The last part made me tear up. The regret he feels and the longing for his mom. May he live a meaningful life from now on.

    • @katiedotson704
      @katiedotson704 Před rokem +25

      @gdeelove22, I too hope he has found or will find a path that enables him to have self-forgiveness for choices he made as a child. Facing abuse with no one to turn to, no guidance, and unable to see any other way out, he did what children do. There are many ways to run or hide from intolerable situations.
      If I could send this man just one message, it would be to tell him that his dignity and self-respect are there for the taking. Do not shoulder the blame for a poor decision that a child made. And above all, forgive that child that didn’t know how to properly care for himself when the adults in his life couldn’t or wouldn’t take care of him.

    • @gdeelove21
      @gdeelove21 Před rokem +7

      @@katiedotson704 Oh my, I pray your message finds him. Beautiful wisdom you got there :”>

    • @mingyuhuang8944
      @mingyuhuang8944 Před rokem

      Modern Japan is a sad, depraved, depressed, hypocritical, and constantly self-conflicting cesspool with little to no resemblance of humanity left. It is a country which focuses on the microscopical details and rules instead of tackling the grand, overarching core issues which have been rotting away for decades. It's people lack any semblance of humanity, energy and warmth. They are apathetic to each other as they drown in their own misery.😢

    • @justsaying9006
      @justsaying9006 Před rokem +4

      I also felt like crying..😢 I don't understand this culture of talking about sth so depressing and keep on nodding and smiling in a nice way..the guy who was at jail probably experienced the worst things with abuse but it didn't sound like he blamed his Mom

  • @Boudica234
    @Boudica234 Před rokem +371

    When the man was asked why he evaporated and he responded "I was sick of the world"....That hit me. I think a lot of us feel that way sometimes.

    • @poiofrito4722
      @poiofrito4722 Před rokem +5

      @Cho Cho you sir are correct

    • @deloresmeeks2301
      @deloresmeeks2301 Před rokem +6

      Very much so some feel like it now

    • @tannhauser5399
      @tannhauser5399 Před rokem +12

      @Boudica - This is not surprising at all, looking at the way everything is going around the planet (including various corporations destroying the whole ecosystems in the name of profits, and dying of plankton which actually produces almost half oxygen on the planet).
      That is not even saying anything about constant increase in the cost of living, extending retirement age, and usual stuff such as rich getting richer, and poor getting poorer...

    • @Boudica234
      @Boudica234 Před rokem

      @Tann Hauser Yup. I think it's beyond doubt that modern civilization is toxic to the human mind, body and emotional well being.

    • @khorinis8161
      @khorinis8161 Před rokem +6

      @@tannhauser5399 Get off social media and focus on what you can control. Polar ice is melting? Can I control it beyond reusing and recycling? No, so what's the point in worrying about it. It is the only way to be happy or at least to not stress yourself into the grave.

  • @VeryMerryLou
    @VeryMerryLou Před rokem +699

    No judgment here, but I cannot blame them. They want to disappear but "not too brave to die". Kudos to the pastor and to the staff helping these people.

    • @docaz9453
      @docaz9453 Před rokem +18

      if they really wanted to help them they could teach them some working skills so they can help themselves , rather then sing riduclous songs on sundays

    • @Maya-sv1pz
      @Maya-sv1pz Před rokem +16

      dying is not brave.

    • @Pheelyp
      @Pheelyp Před rokem +31

      Indeed, the pastor and staff deserve much credit for helping provide the compassion and support that these people people so sorely lacked in their previous lives. ❤

    • @GDName
      @GDName Před rokem

      Japan has a suicide forest. Everything is organized and thought of in Japan.

    • @VeryMerryLou
      @VeryMerryLou Před rokem

      @@docaz9453 help comes in many ways and forms. Emotional support is one. Spiritual is another.

  • @IKEMENOsakaman
    @IKEMENOsakaman Před rokem +1224

    When I think about the family members and friends left behind without any word from the "evaporated" people, my hurt aches. But at the same time, I completely understand that in this difficult and overly complex world, sometimes, we just want to start fresh. If anyone is stressed to a point of ending it all, I'm happy to know that there are ways of "disappearing" from your community and starting a new chapter of your life without anyone knowing who you are or what hardships you went through.

    • @condorX2
      @condorX2 Před rokem +14

      My hurt aches 😂

    • @oofwio
      @oofwio Před rokem +19

      ​@@condorX2 I didn't even notice that
      My brain autocorrected what op said.

    • @dodisatrio3017
      @dodisatrio3017 Před rokem

      I think, "evaporated" is a much better option than suicide. At least one day, when you have the strength to solve the problem, you could come and try again living your rightful life.

    • @Jayalen
      @Jayalen Před rokem +39

      Coming from a toxic family who have destroyed my life progress, I would love to be 'evaporated'

    • @babkeebabkus8177
      @babkeebabkus8177 Před rokem +11

      @@Jayalen it ain't so hard to do..find a place with a creek nearby and grow your own food (tomatoes..nettles...potatoes)...
      people have been choosing to disappear for many thousands of years...hermits..monks...yogis

  • @chengyiq3066
    @chengyiq3066 Před rokem +25

    "I'm sick of this world, but I didnt have the courage to die."
    This is deep..

  • @Shahawir
    @Shahawir Před rokem +41

    An abused child feels trapped, and if there is a way to disappear they will, but when they grow old they regret it, as the old man in the video said.
    So basically, an abused child is in pain his whole life. He would escape from a trap to another.
    Even if the abused child did not disappear, he always carry the pain, mental problems for the rest of his life.
    Be nice to children, and help those children who are abused.

    • @michaellawson6533
      @michaellawson6533 Před rokem +2

      Very true .

    • @andreborges2881
      @andreborges2881 Před rokem +2

      Absolutely. Beautiful words to live by. Be kind to children, always.

    • @MiguelDLewis
      @MiguelDLewis Před rokem +1

      @@andreborges2881 "But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea."
      - Matthew 18:6 ✝

  • @justanothermortal1373
    @justanothermortal1373 Před rokem +1049

    It's so dystopian; people from outside Japan would see this country as a modern paradise but in reality some of its citizens are dealing with some serious mental distress.
    Edit: I know every country has its problems, guys. But by generalising every country's struggles as the same, you are dismissing the specific problems that are unique to one country.

    • @roroellies8188
      @roroellies8188 Před rokem +225

      Any sane person will never see any country as a paradise

    • @Megamibunny
      @Megamibunny Před rokem

      Who thinks it’s a paradise? But I rather be there than in the USA where I get shot at from being not white.

    • @spooknut8625
      @spooknut8625 Před rokem +7

      ​@@roroellies8188 Least anarchist person with a animals pfp.

    • @ChocoMilk.o_o
      @ChocoMilk.o_o Před rokem +85

      As a japanese, you've got the wrong image. This is a small percentage of japan so you judging the minority and calling it the whole country. That's a misjudgement. Almost all of it is lovely, the culture, the food everything. Every country has issues and this is one of japans.

    • @KingstonTiger
      @KingstonTiger Před rokem +38

      ​@@ChocoMilk.o_oYou are right. This is not one of Japan's major problem, people will adapt to it eventually and some will challenge it for the better or worst. It's in our human blood. But what's really troubling is Japan's sinking population and to make it worse ,it's rapid decline in fertility rate . At some point it's exquisite beauty might suddenly disappear if proper steps are not taken by your Govt.

  • @jemmaj2919
    @jemmaj2919 Před rokem +58

    The guy who wanted to see his mum but couldn't really broke my heart 😢, you can see the sadness in his eyes and hear it in his voice😞🥺

  • @ycube3791
    @ycube3791 Před rokem +219

    this video really led me to think... my heart goes out to the elders who evaporated, but especially the one who was abused and evaporated at the age of 16 and regrets doing so -- evaporating was worse than the abuse... its really saddening to think about, and i feel that more support should be given to all these people

    • @mingyuhuang8944
      @mingyuhuang8944 Před rokem

      Modern Japan is a sad, depraved, depressed, hypocritical, and constantly self-conflicting cesspool with little to no resemblance of humanity left. It is a country which focuses on the microscopical details and rules instead of tackling the grand, overarching core issues which have been rotting away for decades. It's people lack any semblance of humanity, energy and warmth. They are apathetic to each other as they drown in their own misery.,,...

  • @Lucy-on1su
    @Lucy-on1su Před rokem +111

    I'm so glad there's people protecting victims of abuse and giving them a chance to live again ❤

  • @JasonB808
    @JasonB808 Před rokem +116

    The last mans words, just shows how bad their situation is. He rather put up with abuse he was suffering as a teenager, than live the way he is now. 😢

    • @ddlcp
      @ddlcp Před rokem +11

      Its more he could've done something different "evaporate" as such case's simple yet complex & highly situational

  • @mikezhang6871
    @mikezhang6871 Před rokem +666

    I think Not just in Japan, every country has this similar group of people who have evaporated, especially in Asian culture which lack tolerance towards people who made mistakes and brought disgrace to their family. From this perspective, what Japan is doing is simply acknowledge this marginalized community and make their voice heard.

    • @meralEdwtDawlatly
      @meralEdwtDawlatly Před rokem +23

      Imagine the countries where a woman alone can't hustle to live because it's a man's country

    • @satpurush2592
      @satpurush2592 Před rokem

      Asians have no tolerance ? Americans have?

    • @feruzadjuraeva1437
      @feruzadjuraeva1437 Před rokem +12

      Not really whole Asia has this kind of culture. We are also Asians. But we don't have such things.

    • @knowledgeispower8625
      @knowledgeispower8625 Před rokem +60

      Speaking of which, may I remind you the fact that Asian nations like Japan, Singapore & Hong Kong sit on a tiny compact land with a mega huge population hanging around where people are bumping into one another day in day out. After some years no wonder some think of evaporating/johatsu.
      Colonialism & Colonization are evil things done and benefited by evildoers. Here in Singapore, a tiny island with 6 million souls lives like sardines in a can, where else in nearby vast bountiful Australia which is ten thousand times 10,000 bigger with a mere 27 million inhabitants.. A similar situation in tiny and packed Japan, which is running out of space and land. Do you know that their living room and bedroom are the same place, and that most Japanese people sleep in their living room.

    • @711jastin
      @711jastin Před rokem +12

      @@knowledgeispower8625 japan isn't technically run out of land, it's just that the Greater Tokyo Area is getting crampier(it's a lot better since the pandemic), life is getting tougher for those living in but moving out of metro means derailing from almost ALL benefit of modern world in japan. singapore is a different case, you don't physically get a choice unless in an extreme way, you flee the country.

  • @_KITE
    @_KITE Před rokem +26

    The power of forgiveness and redemption is so immense
    So many people’s lives would change with a second chance

  • @user-jd8vl3bt6n
    @user-jd8vl3bt6n Před rokem +182

    This is largely down to Japan's unique culture. People never talk about their problems, not even to their parents, family or best friends. It is very difficult for depressed people to seek help and support, or to release their stress. That's why many people end up as hikikomori (socially withdrawn). More serious ones would choose to jouhatsu (disappear). The worst would be committing suicide. Arguably having the option to jouhatsu is not so bad -- those people are at least giving themselves another chance to restart a new life somewhere else rather than to end their lives.

    • @philtwowheels
      @philtwowheels Před rokem +20

      So they're all the same as western men then, we never tell anyone our problems or call someone when we feel depressed. We just hold it inside and hope for the best. This is why men suicide in far greater numbers in the West than women.

    • @mythtree6348
      @mythtree6348 Před rokem +6

      thats why these few seem to be such real and genuine people .. sigh.

    • @luluah1198
      @luluah1198 Před rokem

      @w this is exactly what I think the problem stems from

    • @stephanieyee9784
      @stephanieyee9784 Před rokem +1

      As the lady said, There are no second chances in Japan.

    • @janda5816
      @janda5816 Před rokem +2

      I would characterize Japan’s culture as stifling and repressive. I guess that’s what you meant to say by calling it “unique”.

  • @roroellies8188
    @roroellies8188 Před rokem +36

    I too sometimes want to evaporate, but I still have my mom who love me and will be sad if I disappear, so I try to hold on.

  • @procrastination_r3igns
    @procrastination_r3igns Před rokem +144

    It just feels so right to disappear from the world sometimes. Not death, nor kidnap, just vanish. Without a trace.
    Like that feeling where you want to leave behind all the problems in your life. I myself have thought of disappearing.
    Yet I know that deep inside, you're more determined to live for the people who make your life worth it, than just leave them behind without consideration. Stay strong y'all. ❤

  • @love_a_hater
    @love_a_hater Před rokem +55

    I want them all to find peace, and to let them know they are not alone.

  • @avpr1574
    @avpr1574 Před rokem +306

    Japan is a very complex society. If you disrespect your family or social acquaintances you are almost banished for life. That includes financial and criminal trouble. These situations are more acceptable in the west. The impression I got when I lived in Japan that nobody had deep friendships with each other, more on a superficial level. It is rare and not expected to show emotion. When teaching in a high school, I could never understand of "job rotation". The system is almost designed for you not to forge relationships with your co workers or peers. Maybe a confucist thing. Not sure.

    • @grouchypatch9185
      @grouchypatch9185 Před rokem +43

      Definitely not Confucius path when it preaches deep understanding with relationship and connection. Japan is the least East Asian country to follow and observe Confucius teaching.

    • @nknown3982
      @nknown3982 Před rokem +34

      It's culturally engraved in the society, like you can't call someone by their given name cuz they'll find it rude and the whole formality thing is taken too far, people are bound to get burnt out mentally

    • @kingofthejungle2012
      @kingofthejungle2012 Před rokem +18

      teachers rotate to ensure that all public schools are roughly equal in terms of teacher quality. private school teachers don't rotate though. china is trying to copy that system.

    • @earlysda
      @earlysda Před rokem +11

      @@nknown3982 People call others by the given names fairly frequently in Japan, but yes, that person must be on their "close group" list.

    • @knowledgeispower8625
      @knowledgeispower8625 Před rokem +10

      Japan is a very compact country. The fact that Asian nations such as Japan, Singapore & Hong Kong sit on a tiny compact land with a mega huge population hanging around where people are bumping into one another day in day out. After some years no wonder some think of evaporating/johatsu.
      Colonialism & Colonization are evil things done and benefited by evildoers. Here in Singapore, a tiny island with 6 million souls lives like sardines in a can, where else in nearby vast bountiful Australia which is ten thousand times 10,000 bigger with a mere 27 million inhabitants.. A similar situation in tiny and packed Japan, which is running out of space and land. Do you know that their living room and bedroom are the same place, and that most Japanese people sleep in their living room.

  • @misterlianghui
    @misterlianghui Před rokem +16

    When you disappear, everyone looks for you .... But when you're alive, you are invisible. 😔😔😔

    • @knowledgeispower8625
      @knowledgeispower8625 Před rokem +4

      So true.

    • @spagmarco
      @spagmarco Před rokem +1

      That's right. I am sort of runaway for 25 years and started a new life abroad. They feel sorry, they found they way to track me, you reluctantly accept the contacts, for some time is ok, Then they start as long time ago and you cut it again for ever. You cannot go back waht you run away from.

  • @ria8576
    @ria8576 Před rokem +245

    This is just so sad. Whatever their reasons maybe, you can see it in their eyes that they somehow regretted evaporating. I hope they find some peace in the end...

    • @zitronentee
      @zitronentee Před rokem +59

      It's probably not regret. More like 'This is better than before, but I'm still unhappy.' They can escape society, but they can't escape from themselves.

    • @xPhantomxify
      @xPhantomxify Před rokem +2

      Because despite the abuse they suffered from their family, they at least had a place to go home to and family to talk to. Now they are alone. These people probably feel nothing at all now. Even the abuse was a form of affection for them they most likely even miss...

    • @larajones175
      @larajones175 Před rokem +2

      Believe me "Disappearing" and taking off Is negligence. The loved ones and friends suffer not knowing what became of their family member. Running away is not the answer. Confronting the problem and asking for help is necessary. It should be irresponsible people not evaporating people.

    • @Girvo747
      @Girvo747 Před rokem +12

      @@larajones175 Excuse me, but confronting your abusers doesn’t lead to abusers suddenly deciding to not abuse you. You’re selfish for demanding an abused person stay because you as a family member might feel bad.

    • @t4d0W
      @t4d0W Před rokem +1

      @@larajones175 How is it negligence when the common theme these people who 'evaporated' is that they want to avoid that 'awkward' situation if they were to meet their loved ones again? Clearly there was no compromise for which led these folks to evaporate from the people that knew them. You make it sound like everyone wants to solve their problems head on when even with relationships in the West, this isn't the case.

  • @kennethhong6686
    @kennethhong6686 Před rokem +54

    Dang man, that dude is over 60 years old! To be born and hate the world your whole life… why is life so hard?

    • @-HolySpiritDove-
      @-HolySpiritDove- Před rokem +4

      Everything is temporary, it's all a testing ground.

    • @nknown3982
      @nknown3982 Před rokem

      ​@@-HolySpiritDove- testing ground till the day you die

    • @tishreni5183
      @tishreni5183 Před rokem +6

      Live long enough young man and you'll see.

    • @michaellawson6533
      @michaellawson6533 Před rokem +2

      I doubt he hates the world , just the path he followed in his youth and no means to escape except by evaporating.

    • @kennethhong6686
      @kennethhong6686 Před rokem

      @@michaellawson6533 I guess. Maybe there’s stuff that happened that he didn’t share. I don’t know, maybe I’m pessimistic, because I naturally believe that things don’t always work out the way you hoped. Hope for the best, live to survive the test.

  • @probe1
    @probe1 Před rokem +37

    Absolutely sad. The whole thing is so messed up. the pure pain & emotion in his eyes, I'm sorry man.

  • @xxFireaxx
    @xxFireaxx Před rokem +37

    Its tough that I relate to all these individuals one way or another. I too yearn to drive endlessly south and see where my car takes me to escape life. But I still fight through that for the health of my parents, brother, uncle and friends. I'm sick of the world, but don't want to die either, and just wish I had less pressure and responsibility. These are free spirits and I hope they find solace in life.

    • @user-oz9mp3fe6t
      @user-oz9mp3fe6t Před rokem +2

      They don't disappear just from the family but from the whole system. Don't compare them with you, us. Their culture is way too different and harsher ad no second chances are given. Many Japanese also immigrate to get away for the stressful lifestyle and cultural expectations, long work shifts etc.

  • @KS-xz2rq
    @KS-xz2rq Před rokem +6

    Heart breaking documentary.Nobody in this world deserves to be unhappy.

  • @jamesdellaneve9005
    @jamesdellaneve9005 Před rokem +44

    I ran a homeless ministry out of a church for a decade. We had regulars who dropped out of life like many of these people. As I got to know our guests, they would tell me their stories. Many of them were married with children and just dropped out of life. I found out later that the stories that they were telling me was when they left their families. It was as if time had stopped. They were not the street for a decade or more, and yet, their stories were from their old life.

    • @KeanKennedy
      @KeanKennedy Před rokem +5

      That's really interesting - I noticed at 4:22 the old boy said "So I'm going to leave and live on my own" as if it was present tense. It gave me the feeling he was stuck in that moment, but I thought it might just be a quirk of translation. Perhaps it's just as it sounds though.

    • @Pixiefairy783
      @Pixiefairy783 Před rokem +3

      @@KeanKennedy i have heard that spirits and souls dont know time, they dont realise that they are dead and everyone has moved on..its like the same for these guys, they have stopped moving forward from the time they decided to evaporate..its like they are dead, like the spirits and souls, but dead, without having to go through the physical pain

  • @daiishi_kinyoubi
    @daiishi_kinyoubi Před rokem +7

    This a reminder to be kind and look around for those who sorround you.
    You never know who is acking to feel loved and appreciated in this cold society (not only Japan of course)

  • @sabatheus
    @sabatheus Před rokem +43

    I used to live in Japan in the 90s, when I was in the Air Force. As much as I love Japan, I know it has a dark side. I can't help but watch this and feel really grateful for everything I have in my life.

  • @ashwinjai1793
    @ashwinjai1793 Před rokem +27

    Truly touched by pastor words ‘ I believe that’s our calling’. It shows pastor and church staff humble attitude toward serving the maligned community and not outcast them as per specific standards. It hurts to see many people not only in Japan but whole Asia are victim of domestic violence and mental illness specially when someone bring shame or humiliation to the family, they are being Banished from the society so they choose to evaporate. Simply world needs a heart ❤ and empathy for others.

  • @thatshe808
    @thatshe808 Před rokem +8

    This takes a bunch of courage.Just thinking about leaving your current life and your family behind is what makes these people so brave.They have to start with nothing in their hands but braveness in their heart.

  • @KatherineUribe-1
    @KatherineUribe-1 Před rokem +10

    This breaks my heart. These people are trying to survive horrible trauma in the best way they know how. There's so much guilt and shame. I wish they could drop that but they live in a very judgemental society. Bless each of them. I wish them peace.

  • @langamasi
    @langamasi Před rokem +5

    This is the most fascinating thing I’ve come across in a while. Would love to see a part 2, where you interview the loved ones of evaporated people…the people they leave behind

  • @philipnp8615
    @philipnp8615 Před rokem +19

    Awesome job with this mini documentary!

  • @msjenny6580
    @msjenny6580 Před rokem +1

    For some reason my heart breaks to hear their stories. I want to hug them to give a little comfort. Thank you for sharing.

  • @DayshaRamos
    @DayshaRamos Před rokem +2

    My heart cannot handle this. I am so saddened by this and many other things happening in the world and I still sit here and try to educate myself on the proplems and misfortunes of the world so I have some level of awareness and it is so heartbreaking I just wish I could help everyone. So much mental health issues and not many seem to care. Is tough to watch content like this but it is necessary. Thank you for this video ❤

  • @OffGridInvestor
    @OffGridInvestor Před rokem +16

    I must admit, as someone who was almost a hermit, and with THE KNOWLEDGE I have, I've OFTEN thought of being in the business of helping people vanish. Whether like a voluntary witness protection scheme type thing where we help you disappear without a trace which IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK in this country, especially knowing who and what I know of certainly areas. But I wouldn't want people running from their responsibilities to leave other people burnt. And A BIG ONE is that I have found some people are running FROM THEMSELVES. I've seen that. While in Japan people are RUNNING FROM FAMILY pressure and due to the EXTREME hierarchical structure of society, essentially UNABLE TO get ahead, WHILE ALSO facing pressure from family to do the impossible.

  • @fajarkurniawan9434
    @fajarkurniawan9434 Před rokem +37

    As Indonesian, I feel like some of my fellow country men would gladly use this kind of service. To hide from Debt Collector 😂

  • @rachelleallen-sherwood8527

    This needs to be seen by wider audiences. Award winning stuff.

  • @smartestmoronx19
    @smartestmoronx19 Před rokem +18

    What I am amazed by is, even while you can see the pain he is going through, Kodama's eyes are still bright and full of life.

  • @jeffreyzain
    @jeffreyzain Před rokem +51

    JAPAN has created specific terms for things we know exist but need to be explained in lengthy words:
    1-Kodokushi - Dying alone and remaining undiscovered for months and years
    2-Karoshi - Overwork death
    3-Johatsu - Vanishing purposely without a trace
    Are these red flag signs of a mentally ill society?

    • @supernova7966
      @supernova7966 Před rokem +4

      Japan needs Islam.

    • @roroellies8188
      @roroellies8188 Před rokem +5

      ​@@supernova7966 overproud much? Or having an acute hero-complex?

    • @roroellies8188
      @roroellies8188 Před rokem +16

      Agree, just like USA with all those public shootings. A true sign of mentally ill society 😢 too many repressed feelings in Japan and too many angry feelings in USA

    • @r0land4323501
      @r0land4323501 Před rokem +9

      Also hikokomori

    • @jeffreyzain
      @jeffreyzain Před rokem +1

      @@r0land4323501 - Thanks. I knew I had forgotten something 😅

  • @uncaringbear
    @uncaringbear Před rokem +8

    In a society that is relentlessly rigid and ultimately hollow in its values, it's little wonder that people fall between the cracks and choose to remove themselves from their former lives. It's only going to get worse because, as a country, Japan is unwilling to recognize that it's moving in a direction that is unsustainable to its future. With people choosing not to have children and people rejecting the values of modern society and culture, the outlook is grim.

  • @TheINFJChannel
    @TheINFJChannel Před 9 měsíci +2

    The man whose mom rejected him and he longed for her and then she died, thats a tough pill to swallow! He lived with regret and continues to live without closure. So very sad, it makes my heart ache.

  • @Mabelliot
    @Mabelliot Před rokem

    this is just so heartbreaking.... depressing... but thank you for shedding a light on this problem

  • @jupitermoon8671
    @jupitermoon8671 Před rokem +4

    Heart breaking what happens when we don’t have compassion in society

  • @Indrakusuma_a
    @Indrakusuma_a Před rokem +7

    Again and again, we outsiders mostly only think of the beauty of Japan, but in reality they are one of the harshest and unforgiving environment and society to live on Earth.

  • @michaelandrew4812
    @michaelandrew4812 Před 11 měsíci

    One of the best short films/docos I have seen this year,very sad for those who have evaporated and their families and friends.

  • @zahidakhalid4834
    @zahidakhalid4834 Před rokem +1

    This is heart breaking. It is so sad to see people in these circumstances.

  • @marcusyeo7630
    @marcusyeo7630 Před rokem +7

    I won't pretend to be able to understand their plight but I wish them well. It's disheartening to see so many people longing for acceptance & to be loved 😭
    We can't do anything to help but pray for the best for them
    I hope they find solace & comfort through avenues like the church featured in this documentary

  • @misteryummyearth1055
    @misteryummyearth1055 Před rokem +1

    Saddest most heart rending story ive ever heard, moved to tears

  • @JakeLOL1111
    @JakeLOL1111 Před rokem +2

    This was a really interesting piece SCMP 🍻 I had started to get a bit bored with these 15 minute documentaries from newspapers, but this one was genuinely interesting

  • @majidb6266
    @majidb6266 Před rokem +3

    I was sick of the world, i feel you 😔

  • @AhJodie
    @AhJodie Před rokem +32

    Love to these people. Many people have done this sort of thing all over. I find it sad that there is so many ways to track people that it is getting harder and harder to evaporate, if one chooses to.

    • @spagmarco
      @spagmarco Před rokem +2

      I do agree. I run away from Italy 25 years ago for a new start, went to work/live in Asia but somehow my family members always found the way to track me down even changing my phone numbers etc.

    • @AhJodie
      @AhJodie Před rokem

      @@spagmarco Is it a bad thing that they find you?

    • @solamano7239
      @solamano7239 Před rokem +1

      In Japan, according to the video, the authorities do not give out information.

    • @AhJodie
      @AhJodie Před rokem

      @@solamano7239 Oh... that is interesting!

    • @glenyoung1809
      @glenyoung1809 Před rokem +4

      @@AhJodie It depends on his reasons, sometimes you have to disappear to survive, sometimes family is so toxic that once they come back into your life you find yourself back in the same situation.
      It's especially dangerous for women if they've escaped from an abusive situation, in some cases the abuser ends upnot only continuing the abuse but actually killing the victim out of a sense of rage and anger they couldn't completely control that person and were publicly embarrassed as an abuser.
      This happens all too commonly in most Western countries.

  • @propertisyariahsemarang8142

    Thank you SCMP for making this video available free on CZcams. Youre world class...❤❤❤

  • @MrSprikiting
    @MrSprikiting Před rokem +4

    Brought tears to my eyes while imagining a family member doing this or worse, me doing this to my family. It's just outright heartbreaking - heartbreaking imagining it from both sides. 😭😭

  • @javierpacheco8234
    @javierpacheco8234 Před rokem +7

    Life is so cruel sometimes to people who are different, we just gotta accept that we are not the same but we can still love each other and be respectful and kind. Hope a little progress can come to fruition as the days pass.

    • @joshuabuchanan1141
      @joshuabuchanan1141 Před rokem

      No one has to be different, we can all be the same, I'm telling you

    • @mochacup1868
      @mochacup1868 Před 7 měsíci

      ​@@joshuabuchanan1141Humans don't work like that

  • @Renzsu
    @Renzsu Před rokem

    That was very powerful, thanks 🙏

  • @danestihastin4980
    @danestihastin4980 Před rokem +2

    This is heartbreaking 💔

  • @codenamekeepscrolling758

    Some of the people in the comments have never been in an abusive situation, and for those who have, like myself, I can feel your pain

  • @teaanjay
    @teaanjay Před rokem +9

    This is so sad. I hope that everyone evaporated and not will find their own place where they belong.

  • @riseevolution
    @riseevolution Před rokem +2

    this could be a movie , specially that part night moving. so sad documentary

  • @strivingtobalance
    @strivingtobalance Před rokem +2

    Incredibly moving piece of work.

  • @rays7437
    @rays7437 Před rokem +3

    I would like to see the other side of this situation. I bet that there are just as many, maybe even more, who are now feeling relieved and happier than they were before.

  • @longlost8424
    @longlost8424 Před rokem +4

    the phenomena of human "evaporation" happens all over the world. once we humans determine that there's no reason to continue to be involved in whatever situation we've found ourselves in (and like this man says "don't have the courage to die") we often walk away.... it just seems easier to leave a bad situation rather than attempt to rectify, or otherwise dig out of the hole we're in.....

  • @juststardust8103
    @juststardust8103 Před rokem

    The most complete doc I've ever seen about this subject. Very interesting.

  • @williamsaloka9043
    @williamsaloka9043 Před rokem +1

    So very well done. So bitter-sweet.

  • @blockawocka4026
    @blockawocka4026 Před rokem +18

    Wow, it would be nice if this industry existed where I live..
    I’d certainly use it because I have so many issues now..

    • @v.m.8472
      @v.m.8472 Před rokem

      You might end up breaking your mother’s heart. Try to meet on some small plane so you can continue to have a family to help you.

  • @Listener970
    @Listener970 Před rokem +2

    Their stories hurt so much. There is so much polarity in Japan. It seems so bright and innovative, yet here are these people in there. The evaporated ones.

  • @CAWINC
    @CAWINC Před rokem

    A very important film this is. Thank you for sharing.

  • @Clarkem1
    @Clarkem1 Před rokem +140

    Every culture faces crsis when it comes to doing what you have to to pay your bills. The problem arises with Japanese work culture. Or better described, Japanese over-work culture.

    • @ChocoMilk.o_o
      @ChocoMilk.o_o Před rokem +2

      Nope!

    • @GDName
      @GDName Před rokem +9

      Overwork culture is everywhere. In the US there is no maternity leave for new moms. France just raised their retirement age from 65 to 67.

    • @xhisex9860
      @xhisex9860 Před rokem +5

      ​@@GDName over work culture in Japan is on another level to the point where you'll see people in suits sleeping in the streets because they work over time and they miss the last train.

    • @earlysda
      @earlysda Před rokem

      @@xhisex9860 Some Japanese kids will answer the English question "Do you like your father?" with "I don't know".

  • @ginia33782
    @ginia33782 Před rokem +18

    Bless their souls. If love could be sent I would send love.❤

    • @rainbowstar2775
      @rainbowstar2775 Před rokem

      you can send money throuugh paypal or bankwire

    • @soni8995
      @soni8995 Před rokem

      Love is energy. Just feel it in the space in your chest and think of them. It's real.

  • @Salena905
    @Salena905 Před rokem +1

    This is terribly sad to think you have to disappear and not get a second chance. I can understand wanting to evaporate completely if you're being abused and your partner or parent won't leave you alone. But many have just made mistakes and are being shunned by their own family or society. Thanks for sharing this video. 😥

  • @zebragiraffe1
    @zebragiraffe1 Před rokem

    What a polite, sweet person. So sad that he ended up like that.

  • @othang7210
    @othang7210 Před rokem +17

    I don't know how this elder feels when he said:" my parents are deceased ". It's a meltdown moment inside his soul deeply.

    • @noexcuses5524
      @noexcuses5524 Před rokem

      It was also his mother who said to him "you're dead to me, don't write me"

  • @Gabriel-tg2ob
    @Gabriel-tg2ob Před rokem +17

    This is so sad. They don’t want to end their life but start a new chapter.

  • @heykarm
    @heykarm Před rokem

    Absolutely heartbreaking 💔

  • @suyahatesntr
    @suyahatesntr Před rokem +2

    This kind of stuff is a blessing for people who wants a restart, a reset of their own life.

  • @intreoo
    @intreoo Před rokem +41

    From people living in cyber-cafes and their bedrooms to rented boyfriends and listeners, to this... if sociologists need to study the effects of a dying society; Japan is the place to go..

    • @GDName
      @GDName Před rokem +4

      Japan's version of "homeless" people that which they call evaporated people definitely live more dignified lives than in America... they dont do drugs, they dont commit crimes... they maintain a dignified appearance and demeanor... they attend church services.

    • @Vary180
      @Vary180 Před rokem +17

      @@GDName there was literally a guy in the video talking about how he just got out of jail for drug related crimes xd

    • @mayl4152
      @mayl4152 Před rokem +5

      @@GDName maybe learn a bit about their gang and underworld crimes. Ain’t much better than America lol

    • @GDName
      @GDName Před rokem +5

      @@Vary180 learn about Japan being ranked the top 10 safest country in the world for 14 years straight. US is numbet one for having the biggest prison population in the world and is ranked 129th spot for being the safest.

    • @GDName
      @GDName Před rokem

      @@mayl4152 @Vary learn about Japan being ranked the top 10 safest country in the world for 14 years straight. US is number one for having the biggest prison population in the world and is ranked 129th spot for being the safest.

  • @regineemerald3044
    @regineemerald3044 Před rokem +7

    Oh my this is so sad. why life is so hard. jus like these people, sometimes some people wished to evaporate with just a blink of an eye.. People who experienced disappointments. worries, sadness. financially unstable they may think of doing this.. Sometimes why life is really so unfair.. I really feel and understand them😢😢😢😢

    • @nicoleraheem1195
      @nicoleraheem1195 Před rokem

      Life will be fair, if those who are in a better position, especially those who own buildings with empty rooms, would assist them.
      We should all be able to help each other. There's enough space and food for us all.

  • @NathansWargames
    @NathansWargames Před rokem +1

    you could see the pain in eyes of these guys and I can't imagine it's any better for any of the other "evaporated " people.

  • @JiasenLiu
    @JiasenLiu Před rokem +2

    Thanks. I feel related to these people and now I'm less lonely.

  • @wabisabi7755
    @wabisabi7755 Před rokem +12

    I just finished listening to the podcast Evaporated. Now I wanna learn more about this hidden industry.

  • @ladymissgd
    @ladymissgd Před rokem +4

    @14:56 is just like me. I'm an evaporated person. I changed my numbers, blocked everyone I knew, deleted my social medias and it's been about 5 years now. Haven't ever received a letter from anyone. It's what I wanted but at the same time the loneliness aches. But tomorrow comes and it's all okay and I start my day again. I won't ever go back.

  • @jessisoobin2183
    @jessisoobin2183 Před rokem

    This made me cry

  • @elainethomas9737
    @elainethomas9737 Před rokem

    Wow...just wow very thought provoking and sad 😢

  • @creativepicnl
    @creativepicnl Před rokem +19

    It’s very sad but also quite fascinating. The reasons behind evaporating appear to be understandable but it’s strange when hearing the actual story.
    Also, the image as a an outsider about specifically Tokyo and Osaka for instance are extremely one-sided and romanticized. I heard about Nishinari just last week from a CZcamsr and it kind of bursted a bubble for me. Ofcourse, there are different financial layers in all societies but when realizing that people actively evaporate makes me feel unsettling. It shows the cold hard fact that not everyone is built for participating in certain societies even though you’re born there.

    • @hainiok7915
      @hainiok7915 Před rokem

      What's so special about Nishinari?

    • @creativepicnl
      @creativepicnl Před rokem

      @@hainiok7915 How do you mean exactly?

    • @hainiok7915
      @hainiok7915 Před rokem

      @@creativepicnl You said it bursted a bubble for you.

    • @creativepicnl
      @creativepicnl Před rokem

      @@hainiok7915 Ah, yes I can explain that. When seeing a piece on that particular area on youtube, i’d never expect a situation like that in a thriving city as Osaka. I assumed that there would be low income areas but the image we usually get to see on most platforms are mostly prosperous and it gave a broader perspective on societies and these not being all that it’s portrayed to be. Hence the bubble.

    • @hainiok7915
      @hainiok7915 Před rokem

      @@creativepicnl So was this poor area particularly large?

  • @user-lp6ud3gp1k
    @user-lp6ud3gp1k Před rokem +3

    Japan looks a prosperous country, but in real people are not necessarily more happy than those in "undeveloped" country.

  • @CAI471
    @CAI471 Před rokem

    This was very informative but also the choice of the piano with that ayako girl talking made me feel like I was watching a heart breaking anime.
    thank you for this video

  • @lenag3329
    @lenag3329 Před rokem

    so much pain in Masachi Tanaka's face... I wish he could feel the warmth and care i feel for him... can't stop crying

  • @january5741
    @january5741 Před rokem +14

    i always fantasized about those old western books and movies where you can just literally disappear and start a new life in a different state... employers wouldn't pry too much and the government simply didn't care as long as your hands were clean.

  • @margaretzee8504
    @margaretzee8504 Před rokem +12

    Is there a way to support the ministry in the video? Please let us know.

  • @CMDRSweeper
    @CMDRSweeper Před rokem +2

    This made me so understand a scene in Wangan Midnight regarding the Flat Racing story arc where one of the characters does "evaporate" as his company had imploded with debt.
    Never really understood what was meant by that until this video came along.

  • @haikaikokoni369_
    @haikaikokoni369_ Před rokem +28

    Because of something as mundane as loosing a job, people literally drop out of their identity and flee their lives.
    Let that sink in hard about the insane pressure a person faces to the point they prefer to administratively “die” from the system rather than face their responsibilities, resolve them and thrive.

    • @kyokokirigiri100
      @kyokokirigiri100 Před rokem +1

      that pressure is precisely WHY this place works so well THOUGH. You should have pressure to stay in your job.

    • @mikicerise6250
      @mikicerise6250 Před rokem +5

      ​@@kyokokirigiri100 Japan is not working so well anymore. It's so/so.

    • @vicvic2081
      @vicvic2081 Před rokem +4

      Japan is literally dying .

    • @theoutsider8745
      @theoutsider8745 Před rokem +2

      @@kyokokirigiri100 Yeah and that pressure from work is why people are projecting the Japanese are going to be extinct in several generations. Because of pressure from work means that people are starting less families and living life and stuff. What's the point in being a cog in the machine if it is going to lead to nowhere.

    • @glenyoung1809
      @glenyoung1809 Před rokem +2

      ​@@theoutsider8745 Japan is a corporate machine, a social maze of obligations on top of obligations.
      Individuality is a crime and conformity is the law.
      Of all the East Asian nations it has the most rigid and unforgiving code of social conduct.
      I compare them to Star Trek's Vulcans where there is little expression of personal emotion.
      On the surface Japan has a pristine look to it, ultra clean, efficient, orderly and disciplined at all levels of society, all of which came out of the historical traditions of living in a military dictatorship where warrior-like discipline was expected of all members of society, from the lowest class to the Emperor.
      Where failure for any reason is viewed a crime and there is little in the way of public forgiveness, family honor is the one biggest area where you don't transgress, followed by the honor of your extended family and your company.
      Being laid off is a massive social stigma in Japan, because it's implied that your employer found you less than worthy to work at that company and meant there was something wrong with you.
      Even after WW2 and the reformation of the military ruled culture it didn't change who the Japanese were deep down.
      This as you've said is leading them towards extinction in a couple of centuries.

  • @MsJoanis98
    @MsJoanis98 Před rokem +1

    Thank you for the different perspectives - human connections can be quite complex
    ...we all need to create our own reason for being alive

  • @margauxthompson4628
    @margauxthompson4628 Před rokem +1

    I really hope Masashi finds peace and fulfilment. I can't imagine the heartbreak.

  • @jedics1
    @jedics1 Před rokem +5

    While I am close to my mum I can still really relate to this desire to evaporate, I reject the rat race rent slavery life. Its my time and I will spend it on things of my choosing rather than another's choosing for another's gain. The phrase "The less you want the more you have" really rings true for me and our modern life isn't all it was cracked up to be that's for sure, unless your one of the privileged few of course.