A 55-year-old food delivery worker in Hangzhou, China, tragically died while resting on his electric bike after enduring grueling 18-hour workdays. The incident, which occurred earlier this month, has ignited widespread debate about the working conditions and legal rights of delivery drivers across the country.
According to the South China Morning Post, the delivery man, identified only by his surname Yuan, was found deceased in his sleep by a fellow delivery driver around 1 AM on September 6. Yuan, known for his relentless work ethic and dubbed the “Order King,” had been working from 9 PM the previous evening. The viral video of the incident, which quickly circulated on Chinese social media, has prompted a public outcry over the demanding nature of such jobs.
Yuan’s daily routine involved working from late into the night until the early morning hours. Despite his intense work schedule, which often saw him working until 3 AM and then starting again at 6 AM, he earned between 500 and 600 yuan ($70 to $85) daily, with earnings exceeding 700 yuan on rainy days. His commitment to his job was evident in his willingness to take brief naps on his bike to ensure he could promptly respond to new orders.
Tragically, Yuan had previously suffered a leg fracture in a traffic accident while on duty a month before his death. He took a short rest period of about 10 days before returning to work. Despite his injuries, he continued to work tirelessly to support his family, including a 16-year-old son studying in Hangzhou and an elder son with a family of his own.
The Xianlin Sub-district Office in Yuhang district confirmed that Yuan collapsed and died despite emergency treatment. The office stated that the food delivery platform, the insurance company, and Yuan’s family have reached an agreement regarding the incident, and follow-up arrangements are being made.
The death has stirred a significant reaction on social media, with many expressing anger and sorrow over the harsh working conditions that contributed to Yuan’s demise. One social media user lamented, “Another ‘Order King’ has fallen. Is there really no way to avoid these tragedies?” Another added, “He was in his 50s, the sole breadwinner of his family, working day and night. May he rest in peace. I hope in his next life, he will not have to race against time like this.”
The case underscores ongoing concerns about the welfare of delivery workers in China, who often face extreme pressures and inadequate support. The public’s response highlights a growing demand for improved working conditions and legal protections for these essential workers.
