Japanese workers turn to resignation agencies

I don't understand, what really constitutes a "won't let me quit" scenario? If I hand in my resignation, I don't really care whether my employer rips it or not. I consider my contract terminated because it's a contract that can be terminated by either party to the contract. If I have a notice period, I'll work that period, then stop showing up. If they want to consider the contract as still valid, they can. And then they'd have to pay me, but I don't see why they would if I'm not turning up to work? There must be something in the above reasoning that isn't correct?

You probably wouldn't also give your letter of resignation with your knees on the floor, asking the boss to "forgive me because i failed you", right ?

Yes, japan is a whole different mentality, with a completely different set of values and social norms ( mostly focused on "don't show disrespect to others", and "don't embarrass yourself"). Traveling from japan to the US/Hawaii was probably where i experienced the largest culture shock (and not in a flattering way for americans). It felt like going from civilization to barbaric lands.

On the other hand i can see why some japanese people can't handle that much pressure on their everyday behavior and prefer the western mentality at some point in their life.

Related comment here: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42169771:

> "I can't quit the job. If I say I'm going to quit, I'll be threatened that I will have to pay damages for quitting."

Imagine you have a strong deference to authority and an incredible fear of confrontation. It would be very easy for someone in a position of authority to take advantage of you.

People don't always do what's in their best interest. People talk to the police without a lawyer all the time. People sign away their rights just because they don't want to push back on things. It takes guts to stand up for yourself.

The difference is cultural. The Japanese salaryman believes he is committing a shamefully grave social and professional sin by resigning, so when his employer refuses to accept the resignation, that refusal has moral force.