Ökoreiimi

Ökoreiimi (often romanized as *okoreiimi* or *okorei*) is a Japanese term derived from the combination of *okurimasu* (送る, "to send") and *rei* (礼, "gift" or "salary"). It refers to the practice of employees receiving gifts or monetary payments from their employers as a form of compensation, typically outside of regular salary or bonuses. This tradition is most commonly associated with the construction, manufacturing, and retail industries, particularly in regions like Osaka and the Kansai area.

The practice emerged as a way to supplement wages, especially in sectors where labor-intensive or physically demanding work was prevalent. Employers would provide gifts such as cash, food, or other items to show appreciation for employees' hard work, often during busy periods like the New Year or around major projects. While not legally required, ökoreiimi was historically a widely accepted cultural norm in certain workplaces, though its prevalence has declined in recent decades due to changes in labor laws and corporate practices.

Critics argue that ökoreiimi can blur the line between salary and gratuity, potentially leading to underreporting of income or exploitation. Some industries have shifted toward formalizing compensation through regular wages or structured bonuses. Despite this, the term occasionally resurfaces in discussions about labor practices, particularly in debates over fair wages and workplace ethics in Japan. Its legacy reflects broader societal attitudes toward work culture, generosity, and the evolving relationship between employers and employees.