Core Insights - The article discusses the transition of Japan's 60s generation from being considered the "lucky generation" to facing severe economic hardships, including debt and unemployment, during their middle age [1][2][19]. Debt Crisis - The 60s generation faced a significant debt crisis, with average household debt reaching approximately 20 million yen, the highest among all generations at that time [2][4]. - Many individuals in this generation purchased homes during the peak of the real estate bubble, leading to substantial financial burdens as property values plummeted after the bubble burst [3][4]. - By 2005, the average housing prices had regressed to levels seen in 1981, resulting in many homes becoming negative assets for this generation [3][4]. Employment Challenges - The 60s generation experienced a widespread unemployment crisis in middle age, exacerbated by corporate cost-cutting measures and a shift towards hiring younger, less expensive workers [8][9]. - From 1995 to 2005, disposable income for households in this generation decreased by nearly 25% due to salary cuts and layoffs [8][9]. - The unemployment rate for individuals aged 30 to 40 rose from 1.5% in the early 1990s to 3% by the late 1990s, with many older workers struggling to find new employment [9][10]. Credit Loan Crisis - The rise of unsecured credit loans in the mid-1990s led many households to borrow to pay off existing debts, creating a cycle of debt that was difficult to escape [12][13]. - By 2000, the scale of the credit loan industry had surpassed 10 trillion yen, with a significant portion used to service existing debts, particularly among the 35 to 45 age group [12][13]. - High-interest rates and aggressive collection practices contributed to a growing crisis, with many individuals facing harassment and financial ruin [13][14]. Family Dynamics - The 60s generation also faced a significant increase in divorce rates, with over 2.77 million divorces recorded in the decade following 1995, marking a shift towards what is termed the "midlife divorce wave" [15][16]. - Economic instability and the inability to maintain traditional family roles led to increased tensions and conflicts within households [17][18]. - The financial strain of debt and unemployment often resulted in family breakdowns, as couples struggled to cope with the pressures of their changing circumstances [19]. Societal Reflection - The article highlights the cultural impact of these economic challenges, with the release of the anime "Crayon Shin-chan: The Legend Called Buri Buri 3 Minutes Charge" reflecting the disillusionment and nostalgia of the 60s generation [20][21]. - By 2022, the average debt for households in this generation remained around 6 million yen, indicating that many have not escaped the financial burdens that began decades earlier [28][29].