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QREATION: A New Era in Digital IP Creation

In a significant move for the digital entertainment landscape, QREATION, a leading digital IP studio based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has successfully raised ¥1 billion (approximately $9 million) in its Series A funding round. Spearheaded by Ichigo Investment of the JAFCO Group, this marks the company’s first equity financing. The newly acquired capital will be pivotal in propelling QREATION’s ambitions for global expansion and innovative IP development.

Who is QREATION?

Founded in November 2022 by Keisuke Yonena, a Tokyo University graduate and former producer at Nippon Television, QREATION specializes in high-quality vertical short dramas and variety shows, which often originate from social media platforms. With hit series like "Honjitsu mo Zettai Zetsumei"—boasting over 1.8 billion views across platforms—and various other acclaimed productions that resonate well with Gen Z audiences, QREATION has quickly solidified itself as a heavyweight in Japan’s digital IP arena.

Some standout creations include the thrilling romantic short drama, "Tokimeki Zukan," and the popular variety show, "Chocotto Party". By focusing on social media platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, QREATION has generated tens of billions of views annually, establishing itself as a frontrunner in the industry.

The Motivation Behind the Funding

This capital raise aligns with QREATION's vision of “uniting creative talents to forge a new media industry.” With a keen focus on expanding digital IP on a global scale, the company aims to leverage this funding to strengthen its position in the international marketplace.

Starting in October 2023, QREATION plans to launch a dedicated Digital IP Division, spearheaded by board member Kazuaki Hashimoto. The new division will not only continue its vertical short content but also invest efforts into longer-form horizontal content commonly found on platforms like YouTube, facilitating IP development geared towards overseas audiences.

Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

QREATION's ambitions extend beyond just global IP development. The company is also poised to explore:

• - Innovative Advertising Models: In response to changing consumer behaviors, particularly among younger demographics, QREATION seeks to establish a new form of branded entertainment that resonates with audiences, moving away from traditional advertising. The goal is to create compelling content that naturally attracts audience loyalty to various brands.

• - Expanding the Gen Z Creator Community: With a robust community of talented creators and artists primarily from the Gen Z demographic, QREATION aims to bundle their passion and ideas, collaborating on various content forms and real-world events to challenge the status quo in entertainment.

Messages from Leadership

Keisuke Yonena affirms, “Entertainment has the power to touch hearts, create culture, and push society forward. The recent funding is a step toward ensuring creators are fairly valued and can thrive in an environment conducive to innovation.”

Kazuaki Hashimoto echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the fertile ground for producing globally appealing digital IPs from Japan. “We believe that now is the time for us to create hit products that resonate worldwide,” he stated.

With such visionary leadership and the financial backing to realize these ambitions, QREATION is positioned to redefine the landscape of digital entertainment, with a focus on quality content that captivates and connects with audiences globally.

For those interested in joining QREATION, the company is actively looking to expand its team, aiming to foster a creative environment where individuals of all backgrounds can contribute to the future of entertainment in unprecedented ways. In addition to roles in content creation, there are positions available in advertising sales, PR, and back-office functions, welcoming fresh perspectives keen on challenging the norms of the entertainment industry.

For more information about job opportunities and company insights, please visit QREATION's website.

Conclusion

As QREATION steps into this new chapter with robust funding and visionary goals, the world watches eagerly. Buckle up for a thrilling ride as Japanese digital entertainment embarks on a journey toward global recognition.