Chinese Funeral Home's Unconventional Test: 10 Minutes in a Morgue

A job advertisement from a funeral home in China has caused a stir online due to its unusual hiring requirements. The position, titled "morgue manager," offers a monthly salary of 2,200 yuan (approximately ₹25,000). However, to even qualify for an interview, candidates must pass a peculiar test: spending 10 minutes in a freezing cold morgue.

The job was announced by the Rushan Municipal Bureau of Human Resources and Social Security and targets male candidates under the age of 45 with at least a junior secondary education. The position also requires the ability to work 24-hour shifts and involves a three-year contract. Additionally, applicants must pay a 70-yuan (₹816) examination fee to participate in the process.

The recruitment process involves several steps, including the morgue test, interviews, medical assessments, background checks, and a six-month probationary period. However, the role does not include “bian zhi,” a system in China that guarantees permanent, lifelong employment.

According to a representative from the Rushan Funeral Services Centre, the morgue test is designed to gauge a candidate’s ability to handle the unique working conditions. “A psychological evaluation or internship program would be a better substitute for this type of test. Our work demands someone who can tolerate being in that environment for extended periods,” the staff member explained.

This approach has sparked debate about the ethical implications of such a hiring process. While some argue that the test measures psychological resilience, experts in the field believe it to be inappropriate. “Roles such as body management and crematory work generally come with higher pay because of their specialized nature,” explained a funeral services expert from southwestern China. “A psychological evaluation or internship program would be a better substitute for this type of test.”

Despite the controversy, the job posting has generated significant interest on social media. Many users have shared humorous takes on the situation. One remarked humorously, “At least they didn’t require me to spend 10 minutes in a crematorium!” Another quipped, “I’d stay for 10 hours if you give me a book and some water—but not for this salary.”

The funeral industry in China continues to grow. Reports indicate that the market expanded from 169.5 billion yuan in 2015 to 310.2 billion yuan in 2022.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)