In modern China, the '996' work culture, working six days a week from 9am to 9pm, has sparked controversy. While some view it as a path to success, others condemn it as "modern slavery" due to health issues and even deaths linked to overwork. The 996 debate gained prominence in 2019 after an anonymous protest on GitHub highlighted the risks faced by technology workers. Ancient Chinese merchants also faced similar challenges, rising before dawn and toiling late into the night, enduring sleep deprivation and physical strain exceeding modern standards.