Hikikomori is a form of severe social withdrawal amongst adolescents and young adults that was first described in Japan in the 1990s. However, now one of the leading researchers in the field, Dr Alan Teo, has argued that we need to stop viewing hikikomori as a uniquely Japanese phenomenon and start treating it as a global condition.

Created by director and designer Bunmi Oyateru, this film looks at the issue of social withdrawal in Japan, as a result of cultural expectations, drawing parallels with the experience of the African diaspora. He explores the need to isolate in order to regenerate and reconnect with the self.

Found in Translation is a series made as part of the In The Mix project, in partnership with BBC Studios TalentWorks, Black Creators Matter and the Barbican.

Directed and edited by Bunmi Oyateru
Written by Bunmi Oyateru and Kiki Gukas
Director of Photography: Cassius Adams
Executive Producer: Dan John

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