Pinduoduo worker’s death renews scrutiny of 996 work culture


The so-called 996 office schedule has spurred criticism following complaints from tech workers and earlier deaths, but tech billionaires like Ma (pic) have endorsed the practice as necessary for survival in an intensely competitive industry and the key to accumulating personal wealth. — AP

The recent death of a Pinduoduo Inc employee renewed criticism of the long hours commonly practiced at China’s tech companies, which are already under scrutiny by regulators for anti-competitive business practices.

The e-commerce company confirmed that a female employee collapsed while walking home with colleagues at 1.30am on Tuesday. The employee, who was born in 1998 and joined Pinduoduo in July 2019, could not be resuscitated and died after nearly six hours of first aid, according to a statement. Her death sparked a social media backlash against Pinduoduo and the relentless working schedules expected of its employees, with a hashtag about the incident drawing more than 200 million views on the Twitter-like Sina Weibo service.

Subscribe or renew your subscriptions to win prizes worth up to RM68,000!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.

Related stories:

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

work culture , employee deaths

   

Next In Tech News

WhatsApp rolling out transcription for voice messages in multiple languages
The sky's the limit for Bluesky
Two decades of Nintendo's top-selling DS console
ChatGPT's Advanced Voice Mode is coming to web browsers
Elon Musk blasts Australia's planned ban on social media for children
Bitcoin's wild ride toward $100,000
OpenAI considers taking on Google with browser, the Information reports
One tech tip: How to get started with Bluesky
FCC proposes fining Chinese video doorbell manufacturer after security concerns raised
Snap seeks to dismiss New Mexico lawsuit over child safety

Others Also Read