Silicon Valley Shifts to “Hard Tech” Era, Embracing Intense Work Schedules as Global competition Intensifies
SAN FRANCISCO – A resurgence of demanding work cultures, reminiscent of the early days of the semiconductor industry, is taking hold in Silicon Valley and sparking debate globally, as companies face increasing pressure from international competition – especially from China. The shift marks a departure from the regionS previously lauded emphasis on employee wellbeing and leisure, with some startups now openly promoting schedules akin to China’s controversial “996” system – working 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week.
The trend reflects a broader intensification of the global technology landscape. Competition for dominance is escalating, prompting companies to prioritize speed and output. Pela & Delila, a San Francisco-based remote medical company, recently incentivized a 996 work schedule by offering a 25% salary increase and doubled equity stakes, with approximately 10% of its workforce accepting the terms.
“In the early 2020s, Silicon Valley was symbolized with rich welfare and leisure, and as of 2025, it was converted to the ‘hard tech’ era of high-strength competition,” explained Margaret Omara, a history professor at Washington University, in an interview with The New York Times.She further noted that intense work cultures aren’t new to the region, stating, “996 is not a new phenomenon in Silicon Valley… Since the 1960s semiconductor competition, companies have been free of ‘California casual’, but they have maintained their customary workaholic culture internally.”
The appeal of such demanding schedules isn’t limited to the US. european venture capitalists are also suggesting the adoption of a similar model. Harry Stebings, CEO of 20VC Fund, stated, “Silicon Valley and China’s rapidly growing companies are actually working seven days a week.”
Meanwhile, South Korea is pursuing a contrasting path, aiming to reduce working hours.A proposal for a 4.5-day work week, initially championed during President Lee Jae-myung’s election campaign, is currently under legislative review. A government-launched “Road Map Promotion Team” is developing a plan to shorten working hours over the next three months.
However, this move is raising concerns about the nation’s global competitiveness. Korea’s labor productivity,currently estimated at $44.4 to $54.6, is approximately 77% of the OECD average ($56.5 to $70.6). It lags behind the United States ($77.9), Germany ($68.1), France ($65.8), and the United Kingdom ($60.1).Recent fatal accidents at SPC Group, a major food manufacturer, have also prompted companies like Samyang Food to eliminate special overtime work. The fear is that reducing working hours in a nation already struggling with lower productivity could further weaken its position in the high-tech industry.
