Ichiran | Japan
My recent visit to Ichiran wasn’t my first, but it was the most memorable. After placing my order, I stepped away for a few minutes. When I returned, a small card was waiting for me: “While you were away from ...
Nicolai Bergmann | Japan
Opportunities often come disguised as challenges. A small request, an offhand remark, or even an obstacle. But for those who recognize them, these moments can spark something far greater than imagined. Nicolai Bergmann was one of them. A Tokyo-based Danish ...
Hinok | Korea
One of the biggest mistakes brand builders make is focusing too much on the brand itself. They know every detail, believe deeply in the product’s technology, and work hard to tell consumers all about it. But that’s where brands risk ...
Super Matcha | Korea
For over 1,300 years, matcha has been deeply rooted in tradition, dating back to China’s Song Dynasty and flourishing in Korea during the Goryeo period. Despite its rich history and health benefits, matcha is often seen as an old-fashioned drink—something ...
Tamburins | Korea
Tamburins’ meteoric rise—from $2 million to $80 million in revenue in just three years—was no accident. It was the result of a masterfully executed brand strategy that fused artistry, storytelling, and immersive experiences into a singular, compelling vision. 1. A ...
Monami | Korea
Monami started in 1960. Back then, writing was a hassle in Korea. People had to dip pen nibs into ink constantly, making writing slow and messy. One spill could ruin hours of work. That all changed in 1962 when Monami’s ...
ChocoZAP | Japan
Despite 74% of Japan’s population acknowledging the need for exercise, only 3% actively engage in gym memberships, revealing a significant gap and a tremendous opportunity for the fitness industry. ChocoZap seized this moment with remarkable insight. Committed to making fitness ...
Gentle Monster | Korea
How did Gentle Monster turn a $35,000 investment into a company valued at 1 billion dollars in just over a decade? The answer lies in its ability to blend storytelling, design, and immersive experiences into a singular, unforgettable brand. It doesn’t just sell eyewear—it sells ...
Shoyeido | Japan
1,400 years ago, a large piece of aromatic wood washed ashore on Awaji Island in Japan. The locals noticed its incredible fragrance and offered the wood as a gift to the Imperial Family. This moment marked the beginning of Japan’s ...
Muji | Japan
MUJI was founded in 1980. At the time, Japan was experiencing an unprecedented economic boom, and the market was overflowing with flashy and luxurious products. MUJI’s Japanese name, 無印良品 (Mujirushi Ryohin), means “good products without a brand.” This name reflects ...
Tsutaya | Japan
Tsutaya isn’t just a bookstore; it’s a lifestyle destination. By reimagining the role of bookstores, it has transformed into a cultural and commercial hub that prioritizes experience over transactions. Tsutaya has pioneered a business model that seamlessly blends books, lifestyle, ...
Shokunin Shoyu | Japan
Did you know that the average person in Japan consumes about 7 liters of soy sauce every year (Source: KATI)? In comparison, Americans use only 0.6 to 1 liter annually. This striking contrast underscores how integral soy sauce is to ...