The Yakuza -

: The "Sokaiya" practice of extorting corporations by threatening to disrupt shareholder meetings. The Turning Point: Anti-Gang Legislation

The Yakuza currently face an existential crisis. Older members are retiring, and younger generations find the lifestyle—and its legal consequences—unattractive.

The Yakuza represent one of the world's most sophisticated and storied organized crime syndicates. Rooted in centuries of history, they have evolved from street peddlers into powerful corporate-like entities that operate in a unique gray area of Japanese society. Origins and Early History The Yakuza

: Gamblers who operated in the shadows of highways and towns.

: As they are pushed out of the "gray zone," many are turning to petty crime or cyber-fraud to survive. : The "Sokaiya" practice of extorting corporations by

: Most members came from the "Burakumin" (outcast) class.

The Yakuza are defined by a complex code of conduct and visual symbols that distinguish them from common criminals. The Yakuza represent one of the world's most

: Members can no longer open bank accounts, sign leases, or get insurance.