Inside the lives of Singapore’s young hikikomori, who withdraw from school, family, the world

Singapore is grappling with a hidden demographic of young people increasingly withdrawing from society, a phenomenon often referred to as hikikomori. These individuals, often young students, retreat from school, family, and social interactions, creating a silent crisis within the nation.

The reasons behind this withdrawal are complex, but the series 'Shutdown' highlights that these young people are not characterized by laziness or defiance. Instead, they are often driven by profound fear, leading them to isolate themselves. This isolation can manifest as a complete shutdown from external engagement, making it difficult for them to maintain connections with the outside world.

'Shutdown' delves into the private lives of these hidden youths, offering a glimpse into their struggles. The series aims to shed light on their experiences as they navigate the challenging path toward reconnecting with school, family, and society. It seeks to foster understanding and empathy for a group often misunderstood and overlooked.

The series underscores the need for greater awareness and support systems for these young individuals. By documenting their stories, 'Shutdown' hopes to encourage dialogue and action to help them reintegrate into society and overcome the fears that have led to their withdrawal.