MEDIROM Healthcare Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: MRM) (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Kouji Eguchi; NASDAQ: MRM; hereinafter “MEDIROM”) has joined forces with Hakuhodo Inc. to support the adoption of “World,” a groundbreaking “proof of human” protocol designed for the AI age. This initiative is co-founded and chaired by Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI. Through this collaboration, Tools for Humanity (Headquarters: San Francisco, USA; Co-founder and CEO: Alex Blania; Co-founder and Chairman: Sam Altman; hereinafter “TFH”) aims to accelerate the global rollout of “World ID,” a system that verifies individuals as authentic humans within the “World” protocol. MEDIROM plans to install the “Orb” World ID authentication device in approximately 100 of its “Re.Ra.Ku” relaxation salons, with a goal of deploying the devices across all locations by December 2025. This initiative aims to issue 500,000 new World IDs annually.
About World
World is a “proof of human” protocol designed to verify humanness online while safeguarding privacy. Co-founded by Sam Altman, Alex Blania, and Max Novendstern, the project seeks to build trust in the digital age by distinguishing between humans and AI. Its mission is to create a global economic system where only verified humans can access currency and services. Tools for Humanity leads the development and deployment of this initiative.
About World ID
World ID is a global authentication technology that provides digital proof of humanness. In an era where generative AI blurs the line between humans and machines, World ID offers a solution to verify individuals without compromising their privacy. The system uses the “Orb,” an advanced camera, to confirm humanness and issue a verified World ID, which is stored in the “World App” for use across compatible services.
Roles of Each Partner
- MEDIROM: Installation and operation of Orb devices in over 100 Re.Ra.Ku stores.
- Hakuhodo: Planning and operational support for the domestic expansion of the World project.
- Tools for Humanity (TFH): Provision of World technology, platform operation, and security oversight.
All data is managed with a focus on privacy, ensuring users retain control.
About Re.Ra.Ku Group
Re.Ra.Ku Group operates over 300 relaxation salons across Japan under the “Re.Ra.Ku” brand. The group also manages five additional brands, including “Spa Re.Ra.Ku” in hot spring facilities, “Re.Ra.Ku PRO” for multi-purpose running stations, “Bell Epoc” for reflexology and aromatherapy, and “Ruam Ruam,” which offers luxury Asian massage techniques.
About Tools for Humanity
Founded in 2019, Tools for Humanity (TFH) is a global technology company dedicated to fostering a more inclusive, human-first digital economy. TFH spearheaded the development of the World Network and operates the World App. The company is headquartered in San Francisco and Berlin.
About MEDIROM Group
MEDIROM Group operates over 300 relaxation salons under the “Re.Ra.Ku®” brand across Japan. Since 2015, the company has expanded into HealthTech, offering on-demand training apps like Lav® and lifestyle improvement programs. In 2020, MEDIROM launched the battery-free smart tracker “MOTHER Bracelet®,” now used in its REMONY remote monitoring system for industries such as caregiving, transportation, and construction.
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