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Chinese Court Says Firing Over 16,000-Step ‘Sick Day’ Was Illegal, Orders Payout

An October post by the Justice Ministry revived the 2019 case, drawing fresh scrutiny of workplace surveillance.

Overview

  • The final judgment upheld that the Jiangsu employer unlawfully dismissed the worker, identified as Chen, and must compensate him.
  • Labour arbitration had previously directed the company to pay 118,779 yuan after investigating Chen’s complaint.
  • The employer appealed using CCTV footage and chat-app data that purported to show Chen running and logging over 16,000 steps on the disputed day.
  • Chen submitted hospital diagnoses for a work-related back strain and later a heel spur, arguing his medical leave was properly documented.
  • Public discussion has intensified after the Ministry of Justice highlighted the case, focusing on employer obligations and limits of digital monitoring in workplaces.