Working conditions of animators: The real face of the Japanese animation industry

Abstract

ABSTRACTJapan is recognized as the leading country in the global animation industry. Nevertheless, the real circumstances behind the scenes have not been fully unveiled to a wider audience. In the past half century, Japanese animation has developed without government support. However, now it finds itself at a crossroads. The Japanese Animation Creators Association investigated animators' working conditions in 2008 as part of the first assessment of this field and revealed some important facts. In addition to the industry's heavy reliance on outsourcing to countries such as China and South Korea, the assessment finds that young animators face poor working conditions. This article demonstrates the main points arising from these facts, and outlines the recent approach of the Japanese government in response to the problems.