Kitanai, Kitsui, Kiken

As one of the developed countries in the world, Japan naturally attracts plenty of immigrants who would try their fortune to the country, one of whom is this writer of course :P (although I have come for reasons that most of my friends realize by now).


There is a big difference however in how Japan treats its immigrants vs Europe and US treat theirs. Generally, the Japanese government (which I would say is the representation of its people, right?) do not feel too strong of affinity to let people enter the workforce, especially professional work area (such as technology, engineering, medical doctors, lawyers, etc.). The seemingly closed nature of Japanese as a society appears to create this condition perhaps.

On the other hand however, less and less Japanese, especially the younger generations, are willing to perform work they consider as 3K:
- Kitanai=literally means dirty
- Kitsui=hard, difficult (physically)

- Kiken=dangerous
This is a de facto situation that actually create most of the opportunities for immigrants who wants to work in places classified as 3K. Thus, you will find many people from South East Asia, Iran, Turkey, people from the South Americas who works in construction, food packaging industries, metal foundries, etc. More over, many of the people who actually work in these industries are illegal immigrants, something that Japanese government is definitely aware, but they tacitly allow this, since they know that the immigrants are needed to keep the economy going.


I was told once by the immigration officer at the Indonesian embassy that in Tokyo alone, there are roughly 6000 Indonesians who came to Japan without proper visa documentations (i.e. illegal), in search of the 3K works. He also informed me of many cases of abuse, be it physically, financially or mentally that they have to suffer, which unfortunately very difficult to resolve, due to their illegal status in Japan.

I must admit, I admire the guts and courage of my fellow countrymen(women) who came here to do the 3K works, in search of a better future for their lives. At least, they do not need to compromise their moral values, when it comes to pride and dignity, as they earn their lot in life with honesty.