This phenomenon is known as Johatsu, or “evaporated people”
Katlego Sekhu
In Japan, there are companies that offer a controversial service: helping people disappear completely from their existing lives.
This phenomenon is known as Johatsu, or “evaporated people,” and refers to individuals who intentionally vanish from their established lives without a trace.
The practice has become so common that it’s estimated approximately 100,000 people disappear annually in Japan through this method.
Driven by immense societal pressures and a deep sense of shame, people’s reasons for disappearing vary.
These include financial challenges, job loss, failed marriages, and even escaping abusive relationships.
This drastic step allows individuals to avoid the perceived disgrace of failure, choosing anonymity over confronting their problems within a society.
Johatsu in Japan is largely facilitated by the country’s strict privacy laws, which limit police intervention in cases of voluntary adult disappearances unless a crime is suspected.
This legal framework enables the existence of professional services that specialise in helping people vanish.
On Wednesday morning, The Siz The World team explored this phenomenon, asking listeners whether they would enlist the services of these “night movers” and what problems might drive them to such extreme measures.
Some of the responses will surprise you. To hear the full discussion, listen to the podcast.
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