Olgoise, a company specializing in AI-driven Large Language Models, has achieved success…
Start-up Alliance Publishing’s ‘Playbook for Entering Japan’ Draws from Wanted Lab’s Local Insights
Olgoise, a company specializing in AI-based Large Language Models (LLMs), achieved notable success, ranking first in Japan’s Generative AI application development market by collaborating with experienced co-founders from Yahoo Japan and Rakuten.
Caplix, a mobility digital transformation startup, successfully ventured into the Japanese market after establishing price comparison and reservation services in Jeju, capitalizing on high demand for rental cars. By implementing the same system in Okinawa—a niche market as opposed to the bustling Tokyo—it has experienced rapid growth through partnerships with local governments.
On the 21st, Startup Alliance announced the release of the “Startup Japan Entry Playbook” in collaboration with Wanted Lab. This resource is available for free download on the Start-up Alliance website and under the events section of Wanted Lab’s official site.
The playbook is crafted by merging the insights from Wanted Lab’s operation of “Wanted Japan,” its Japanese subsidiary, with Startup Alliance’s expertise in facilitating overseas expansions. It serves as a practical guide for both aspiring and established startups in Japan. Key content includes a checklist for preparing to enter the Japanese market, insights into the backgrounds of Korean startups in Japan, analyses of successful case studies and entry strategies, HR tips for effective market entry, and practical business guides. Additionally, results from a survey of 44 startups that have either entered or are preparing to enter Japan are included.
Wanted Lab joined forces as a strategic investor after collaborating with Japan’s IT recruitment platform ‘Lapras,’ which significantly aided its market entry. In Japan, many employees from large corporations in their 40s and beyond are transitioning to startups, alongside cultural resources like dramas that enhance understanding of Japanese culture.
CEO Kang Cheol-ho of Wanted Japan stated, “This resource will greatly aid in minimizing trial and error through localization strategies, including an understanding of Japan’s slow-paced aesthetics, business culture, securing bridge talent with extensive experience in both Korea and Japan, and establishing strategic partnerships.”
Lee Ki-dae, head of the Startup Alliance Center, expressed, “I hope K startups can leverage their strong favorability towards Korea,” adding, “I trust this playbook will serve as a valuable guide for startups to identify real opportunities in the Japanese market and achieve successful establishment.”
