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ERR_REQUIRE_ESM

require esm

What does this code mean?

Code ERR_REQUIRE_ESM · An issue reported by Node.js.

Official explanation · Original text

An attempt was made to require() an ES Module. This error has been deprecated since require() now supports loading synchronous ES modules. When require() encounters an ES module that contains top-level await, it will throw ERR_REQUIRE_ASYNC_MODULE instead.

Troubleshooting and diagnostic links

First check that the document's product, version, and environment match your situation.

Source and terms of use

Errors | Node.js v26.13.1 Documentation ↗

Creator: Node.js contributors; Joyent, Inc. and other Node contributors
License: MIT License (Node.js documentation)
Checked on: 2026-11-12

Modifications: English prose extracted; whitespace normalized; Korean context and classified official links added. Python code examples not redistributed.

Source details · Original licenses and notices