In Japan, the poor working environment of actors, actresses, and other entertainers has drawn significant social attention. In 2023, it was revealed that one of the country’s largest talent agencies had subjected its male trainees to prolonged sexual abuse. This led to an investigation by the United Nations Human Rights Committee. In 2024, a major private television network faced severe criticism after failing to address a serious case of abuse involving a female announcer.

Many entertainers in Japan work as freelancers. In November 2024, the Japanese government enacted the Freelance Act to enhance protection of freelancers, including entertainers. Additionally, Japan’s central labor organization, JTUC-RENGO, held a Freelance Summit in Tokyo at the end of November 2024 to strengthen efforts to reform the working environment for freelance workers.

In December 2024, Japan’s Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) released the results of its first-ever investigation into the working environment in the entertainment industry. The findings revealed that approximately 30% of contracts between talent agencies and entertainers were verbal agreements only. Additionally, more than 20% of agencies had a practice of unilaterally extending contract periods when entertainers requested to leave or transfer to another agency. It was also common for entertainers to face harassment or interference when attempting to go independent or move to a different agency.

Entering 2025, the JFTC and the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare have intensified their efforts to reform the working environment in the entertainment industry. Their key initiatives include: 1) requiring written employment contracts; 2) ensuring clear and timely payment of wages; 3) providing measures to counter unfair reductions in compensation; and 4) preventing unjust economic disadvantage for actors and actresses. The JFTC provides consultation for those workers and is actively raising awareness through its website and other channels.

On the labor union front, industry-specific unions for entertainers are working to organize and support workers. Meanwhile, RENGO has established a Freelance Workers’ Compensation Insurance system. To support freelancers further, RENGO has also set up the Freelance Workers’ Insurance Center in Tokyo.

Historically, entertainers in Japan have struggled to assert their labor rights and demand better working conditions. As a result, the few entertainers who joined labor unions were forced to push for change under difficult circumstances. However, today, these issues are gaining significant public attention. Japan is now at a critical juncture, with increasing international collaboration in the effort to improve working environment for entertainers.

<K.K>