Famous Japanese Businessmen

Satoru Iwata was a prominent Japanese businessman, video game programmer, designer, and producer known for his tenure as the president and CEO of Nintendo. He played a key role in expanding the appeal of video games by emphasizing innovative and entertaining game experiences over cutting-edge hardware. Iwata's career spanned key contributions to games like EarthBound and the Kirby series, as well as overseeing the development of successful consoles such as the Nintendo DS and Wii. His strategic leadership led Nintendo to achieve significant financial success before his untimely passing.

Carlos Ghosn is a prominent businessman and former automotive executive known for his leadership roles in various international companies. He has served as CEO of Michelin North America, chairman and CEO of Renault, chairman of AvtoVAZ, chairman and CEO of Nissan, and chairman of Mitsubishi Motors. Ghosn gained widespread recognition for his management acumen and strategic decision-making in the automotive industry. His career has been marked by significant accomplishments and controversies, including his high-profile escape from house arrest in Japan.

Masayoshi Son is a Japanese billionaire technology entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist known for founding SoftBank Group Corp. and serving as its chairman and CEO. He gained prominence in PC software distribution, publishing, and telecommunications in Japan. Despite some poor investment decisions, Son's reputation as an investor was boosted by his successful investment in Alibaba Group. He transformed SoftBank Corp. into an investment management firm and established the SoftBank Vision Funds. Son has been both praised and criticized for his investing strategies and perceived eccentricities.

Soichiro Honda was a Japanese engineer and industrialist who founded Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in 1948. Under his leadership, the company evolved from producing bicycle motors in a wooden shack to becoming a global powerhouse in the automobile and motorcycle industry. Honda's innovative approach to engineering and manufacturing revolutionized the industry, leading to the company's success on a multinational scale. His dedication to quality and pushing boundaries resulted in Honda becoming a prominent and respected name in the automotive world.

Fusajirō Yamauchi was a Japanese entrepreneur who founded Yamauchi Nintendo, later known as Nintendo. Under his leadership, the company evolved from producing handmade playing cards to becoming a successful and innovative entertainment business. Yamauchi's vision and business acumen played a pivotal role in shaping Nintendo's trajectory, laying the foundation for its future success in the gaming industry. His entrepreneurial spirit, strategic decision-making, and commitment to quality and innovation were key factors in establishing Nintendo as a prominent player in the global gaming market.

Yusaku Maezawa is a prominent Japanese entrepreneur known for founding Start Today in 1998 and launching Zozotown in 2004, the largest online fashion retail website in Japan. In 2018, he introduced the Zozo brand and the innovative Zozosuit for custom-fit apparel. With a keen focus on technology and fashion, Maezawa has made significant contributions to the e-commerce industry. As of December 2021, Forbes estimated his net worth at $2.0 billion, solidifying his position as a successful businessman and art collector.

Masaru Ibuka was a pioneering Japanese electronics industrialist recognized for co-founding Sony alongside Akio Morita. Ibuka played a pivotal role in establishing Sony as a global leader in consumer electronics, contributing significantly to its innovations and growth. His visionary leadership and strategic insights were instrumental in shaping Sony's success, leading the company to become a prominent player in the industry. Ibuka's legacy continues to inspire generations of innovators and entrepreneurs in the field of electronics and technology.

Toshio Suzuki is a prominent Japanese film producer known for his work in the anime industry. He is a co-founder and the president of Studio Ghibli, a renowned animation studio. Suzuki has collaborated closely with Hayao Miyazaki, another influential figure in the world of Japanese animation. His career is marked by the immense box office success of numerous Ghibli films in Japan, establishing him as one of the country's most successful producers. Suzuki's contributions have left a lasting impact on the anime industry.

Akio Morita was a pioneering Japanese entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of Sony, a global electronics and entertainment company. Throughout his career, Morita played a pivotal role in driving Sony's growth and innovation, helping to establish the company as a leading force in the industry. He was known for his visionary leadership, strategic business decisions, and commitment to technological advancement. Morita's contributions to the world of consumer electronics and entertainment have left a lasting impact on both Sony and the broader industry.

Hiroshi Mikitani is a Japanese billionaire business magnate, writer, and influential figure in the global business world. As the founder and CEO of Rakuten, Inc., he has led the company to become one of the largest e-commerce platforms in Japan and worldwide. Mikitani also holds key positions such as president of Crimson Group, chairman of Vissel Kobe football club, chairman of Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, and board member of Lyft, showcasing his diverse interests and impact across various industries.

Kōnosuke Matsushita was a renowned Japanese industrialist who founded Panasonic, the leading consumer electronics company in Japan. He is widely recognized as the "God of Management" in Japan for his innovative leadership and business acumen. Matsushita's professional life was characterized by his strategic vision and commitment to quality, which propelled Panasonic to become a global powerhouse in the electronics industry. His legacy includes pioneering management techniques and a dedication to social responsibility, leaving a lasting impact on the business world.

Hiroyuki Nishimura is a prominent Japanese internet entrepreneur known for founding the message board 2channel and serving as an administrator of 4chan. He is also recognized as a self-help author and TV personality. Nishimura was previously involved with Niwango, the operator of the video-sharing service Nico Nico Douga. In 2015, he acquired 4chan from its founder, Christopher Poole. Following a dispute, Nishimura transitioned to operating 2ch.sc, a competitor to 2channel. His professional career showcases his expertise in internet platforms and community management.

Kiichiro Toyoda was a prominent Japanese businessman who played a pivotal role in transforming his family's company, Toyoda Loom Works, into the renowned automotive giant, Toyota Motor Corporation. By shifting the company's focus from automatic loom manufacturing to automobile production, he laid the foundation for Toyota's success in the global automotive industry. Toyoda's strategic vision and leadership skills were instrumental in steering the company towards innovation and growth, establishing a legacy that continues to thrive today.

Joi Ito is a Japanese entrepreneur and venture capitalist known for his leadership in Internet and technology companies. He has held prominent roles such as President of Chiba Institute of Technology, director of the MIT Media Lab, and visiting professor at Harvard Law School. Ito has founded companies like PSINet Japan, Digital Garage, and Infoseek Japan. He has been involved in various organizations, serving as a general partner of Neoteny Labs and as a board member for entities like Creative Commons, ICANN, and The Mozilla Foundation.

Taiichi Ohno was a prominent Japanese industrial engineer and businessman known as the father of the Toyota Production System. His work inspired Lean Manufacturing in the U.S. He is credited with devising the concept of the seven wastes, referred to as muda in Japanese, as part of the Toyota Production System. Ohno authored several books on the system, including "Toyota Production System: Beyond Large-Scale Production." Through his innovative ideas and contributions, Ohno significantly impacted the field of industrial engineering and manufacturing practices worldwide.

Ken Kutaragi is a Japanese engineering technologist and businessman known as "The Father of the PlayStation." He served as the former chairman and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment and is currently the president and CEO of Cyber AI Entertainment. Kutaragi oversaw the development of the original PlayStation console and its successors, including the PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, and PlayStation 3. He also designed the sound processor for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System and the VLSI chip for the PlayStation 1's graphics rendering.

Nobuyuki "Nobu" Matsuhisa is a renowned Japanese celebrity chef and successful restaurateur known for his innovative fusion cuisine that combines traditional Japanese flavors with Peruvian ingredients. His iconic dish, raw black cod in miso, has garnered worldwide acclaim. With restaurants bearing his name in various countries, Nobu has established a global culinary empire. In addition to his culinary achievements, he has made cameo appearances in three major films, further showcasing his talent and influence in the culinary world.

Kazunori Yamauchi, also known as "Kaz," is a prominent Japanese game designer and racing driver. He serves as the CEO of Polyphony Digital, a renowned video game development company, and plays a pivotal role as the producer of the acclaimed Gran Turismo video game series. Yamauchi's expertise and passion in both game design and real-life racing have uniquely positioned him as a leading figure in the gaming industry, with his contributions greatly impacting the success and innovation of the Gran Turismo franchise.

Hiroshi Yamauchi was a Japanese businessman who served as the third president of Nintendo for 53 years, from 1949 to 2002. During his tenure, he transformed Nintendo from a hanafuda card-making company into a global video game publisher and conglomerate. Yamauchi was instrumental in Nintendo's success, overseeing its expansion into the multibillion-dollar industry. He was known for his leadership and business acumen, driving the company's growth and establishing its position in the gaming market.

Akihiro Hino is a prominent Japanese video game designer and businessman known for founding Level-5 in 1998, where he serves as president and CEO. Beginning his career as a programmer in the 1990s, Hino has taken on various roles in writing, design, directing, and producing within the gaming industry. His innovative approach and leadership have led Level-5 to become a highly respected and successful game development company, creating acclaimed titles that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Shibusawa Eiichi, also known as the "father of Japanese capitalism," was a pioneering industrialist who introduced Western capitalist principles to Japan post-Meiji Restoration. He established the first modern bank with joint stock ownership, promoted economic reforms like double-entry accounting, and founded numerous corporations, including the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Shibusawa played a key role in establishing institutions such as the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, hospitals, schools, and charitable organizations. Despite founding many corporations, he avoided maintaining a controlling stake, distinguishing himself from traditional zaibatsu founders. His contributions earned him prestigious titles and recognition, including being featured on Japanese currency.

Tadashi Yanai is a Japanese billionaire businessman known for founding and leading Fast Retailing, the parent company of the popular clothing brand Uniqlo. With an estimated net worth of US$26.5 billion, he is considered the richest person in Japan and one of the wealthiest individuals globally. Yanai's success stems from his innovative approach to retail and fashion, which has propelled Fast Retailing to become a major player in the global apparel industry. His leadership and business acumen have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the business world.

Kokichi Mikimoto was a pioneering Japanese entrepreneur known for creating the first cultured pearl and establishing the cultured pearl industry through his luxury pearl company Mikimoto. Recognized for his innovative contributions, he was posthumously honored with prestigious awards and accolades, including induction into the House of Peers and receiving the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure. His legacy extends to Mikimoto Pharmaceuticals and Mikimoto Pearl Island, while his patented work on the "Phoenix Mikimoto Crown" is renowned in beauty products and pageant crowns worldwide.

Norio Ohga was a prominent figure in the history of Sony Corporation, serving as its president and chairman. He played a crucial role in driving the advancement of the compact disc, transforming it into a successful audio format. Ohga's leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping Sony's trajectory in the electronics industry. His contributions to innovation and business development left a lasting impact on Sony's legacy and the broader music and technology sectors.

Shu Uemura was a renowned Japanese make-up artist and the founder of his eponymous cosmetics line. Throughout his professional life, he achieved global recognition for his innovative and artistic approach to makeup. Uemura revolutionized the beauty industry with his unique techniques and high-quality products, earning him a reputation as a visionary in the field. His brand continues to be celebrated for its commitment to creativity, excellence, and pushing boundaries in the world of cosmetics.

Taikichiro Mori was a successful entrepreneur and influential figure in the real estate industry. He founded Mori Building Company and played a key role in its growth and development. Mori's professional journey included positions as a Professor at prestigious educational institutions, where he imparted his knowledge and expertise to students. Following his time in academia, he transitioned to leading the Mori Building Company, where he continued to make significant contributions to the business world.

Iwasaki Yatarō was a prominent Japanese industrialist and financier renowned for founding Mitsubishi, a leading conglomerate in Japan. His professional career was marked by strategic vision and business acumen, playing a pivotal role in the growth and success of Mitsubishi. Under his leadership, the company diversified its operations, expanding into various sectors such as shipping, mining, and finance. Iwasaki Yatarō's legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur and industrialist continues to be celebrated in Japan's business history.

Nobuyuki Idei was a prominent Japanese businessman known for his leadership in the technology and entertainment industries. Serving as chairman and group chief executive officer of Sony Corporation until 2005, he played a key role in shaping the company's global presence. Idei's influence extended beyond Sony, as he also held director positions at General Motors, Baidu, Yoshimoto Kogyo, and Nestlé. His expertise and strategic vision made him a respected figure in the business world, contributing significantly to the success of various multinational corporations.

Den Fujita was a pioneering entrepreneur who founded McDonald's Japan, playing a pivotal role in introducing the American fast-food chain to the Japanese market. His innovative business strategies and marketing tactics helped McDonald's Japan achieve significant success and growth, becoming a well-established and popular fast-food brand in the country. Fujita's leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the fast-food industry in Japan and establishing McDonald's as a prominent player in the market, leaving a lasting impact on the culinary landscape.

Shoichiro Toyoda was a prominent Japanese business executive known for his leadership at Toyota Motor Corporation and the Japan Business Federation. He served as chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation from 1992 to 1999, overseeing the company's expansion into overseas manufacturing and the development of the Lexus brand. Additionally, he held the position of chairman at the Japan Business Federation from 1994 to 1998. Toyoda's tenure was marked by strategic initiatives that contributed to Toyota's global growth and success.

Shin Kyuk-ho was a prominent businessman known for founding the South Korean-Japanese conglomerate Lotte Corporation, which grew to become one of the largest chaebols in South Korea. He achieved significant success during Japan's bubble economy, becoming one of the wealthiest individuals globally. Shin's dedication to contributing to South Korea led to the realization of projects like the Lotte World Tower. Despite facing legal issues later in his career, his legacy in the business world remains notable, with Lotte being a major multinational corporation.

Genichi Kawakami, son of Kaichi Kawakami, took over as president of Nippon Gakki, later known as Yamaha. He led Yamaha to diversify its products beyond musical instruments, expanding into motorcycles, auto parts, and sewing machines. Under his leadership, Yamaha grew into a multinational corporation with a wide range of offerings. Genichi's strategic vision and innovative approach to business helped Yamaha establish a strong presence in various industries, solidifying its reputation as a successful and versatile company.

Isao Okawa was a prominent Japanese businessman known for his role as the Chairman of Sega. He played a pivotal role in the growth and success of Sega during his tenure. Okawa's leadership and strategic decisions helped shape Sega into a leading player in the video game industry. He was highly respected for his business acumen and visionary approach, contributing significantly to Sega's global expansion and innovation in the gaming market. Okawa's legacy as a successful business leader continues to inspire many in the industry.

Yoichi Wada is a prominent figure in the Japanese video game industry, having served as the former president and representative director of Square Enix and its subsidiary Taito. He has also held leadership positions in various organizations, including chairman of the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (CESA) and president of Shinra Technologies. Wada's expertise extends to digital content promotion and brand strategy, as evidenced by his roles in the Digital Content Use Promotion Conference and the Japanese Brand and Contents Council. Currently, he serves as an outside director of Metaps.

Asano Sōichirō was a prominent Japanese businessman known for founding several successful companies, including Sapporo Breweries, Toa Construction Corporation, Oki Electric Industry, JFE Group, and Taiheiyo Cement. He diversified his business interests, creating a minor zaibatsu. Asano was instrumental in reclaiming Tokyo Bay, establishing an industrial zone, and developing transportation infrastructure in the region. He also founded educational institutions such as Asano High School and Asano Institute of Technology, leaving a lasting impact on industrial and educational sectors in Japan.

Masaaki Shirakawa is a prominent Japanese economist who served as the 30th Governor of the Bank of Japan (BOJ). He is also a respected professor at Aoyama Gakuin University. Shirakawa's expertise and leadership in economics led to his role as a Director and Vice-Chairman of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS). With a distinguished career in both academia and central banking, Shirakawa has made significant contributions to the field of economics and financial governance on both national and international levels.

Minomura Rizaemon was a prominent Japanese industrialist known for his significant contributions to the success of the Mitsui house during the Tokugawa period. He played a crucial role in transforming Mitsui into a financial powerhouse by implementing modern banking practices. Through his strategic vision and leadership, Minomura established the foundation for an industrial empire, paving the way for continued growth and prosperity. His legacy as a forward-thinking businessman and innovator continues to be celebrated in Japanese business history.

Baron Ōkura Kihachirō was a pioneering Japanese businessman, investor, and philanthropist known for founding the Ōkura-gumi zaibatsu, which evolved into the Taisei Corporation. He established the Ōkura Shōgyō Gakkō, later renamed Tokyo University of Economics. Unlike many zaibatsu founders, Ōkura emerged from a peasant background, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and determination. He left a lasting legacy through his contributions to the business world and education sector, shaping the economic landscape of Japan.

Baron Dan Takuma was a prominent Japanese businessman who served as the Director-General of Mitsui, a leading zaibatsu in Japan. He played a key role in fostering closer relations between Japan and Western powers through various business missions and initiatives. Takuma was known for his efforts in promoting peace and international commerce, working alongside influential figures such as Frank A. Vanderlip and Baron Shibusawa Eiichi. His professional legacy includes leading Japanese business delegations to the United States, Great Britain, and France to discuss economic issues and strengthen business ties.

Yukio Okamoto was a prominent Japanese diplomat and diplomatic analyst known for his role in guiding Japanese and American relations in the 1980s. He served as a diplomatic advisor to several Japanese prime ministers, including Ryutaro Hashimoto and Junichiro Koizumi, and played a key role in mediating sensitive bilateral issues. Okamoto transitioned from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to establish his consulting agency, Okamoto Associates Inc., and continued to advocate for strong American and Japanese relations through teaching, writing, and public engagements.

Isao Nakauchi was a prominent Japanese businessman known for founding Daiei, a major supermarket chain in Japan. He also established the University of Marketing and Distribution Sciences in Kobe, Hyōgo Prefecture. Nakauchi's contributions to the retail industry were significant, as he played a key role in expanding Daiei's presence and influence in the market. Additionally, his establishment of the university showcased his commitment to education and developing expertise in marketing and distribution fields, leaving a lasting impact on Japan's business landscape.

Masaru Hayami was a prominent Japanese central banker and businessman known for his role as the Governor of the Bank of Japan from 1998 to 2003. In addition to his service at the Bank of Japan, he also held the position of director at the Bank for International Settlements. Hayami was recognized for his efforts to address deflation by advocating for changes in Japan's economic structure. His leadership and expertise in the financial sector left a lasting impact on Japan's economic policies during his tenure.

Shōzō Murata was a prominent figure in Japan's business and political landscape. As an entrepreneur, he played a key role in various industries, showcasing his business acumen and leadership skills. His career also saw him serve as a cabinet minister, where he contributed to shaping government policies and initiatives. Additionally, Murata's diplomatic endeavors allowed him to represent Japan on the international stage, engaging in crucial discussions and negotiations. Throughout his professional life, he demonstrated versatility and dedication in various roles, leaving a lasting impact on Japan's history.

Toshihiko Fukui is a prominent Japanese economist and central banker known for his significant contributions to the financial sector. Serving as the 29th Governor of the Bank of Japan (BOJ), he played a key role in shaping monetary policies and ensuring financial stability in the country. Additionally, Fukui's involvement as a Director of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) further highlights his expertise and influence on the global economic landscape. His professional career exemplifies a dedication to effective policymaking and international cooperation in the field of finance.

Keiji Tachikawa is a prominent figure in the field of aerospace and telecommunications. He began his career at Nippon Telegraph & Telephone (NTT) and later served as president of its subsidiary, NTT DoCoMo. With a background in electrical engineering and a Ph.D. in Engineering, Tachikawa brought his expertise to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in 2004 as its president. He was tasked with restructuring the agency following a rocket launch failure in 2003, showcasing his leadership and problem-solving skills in the aerospace industry.

Shin Dong-bin is a prominent South Korean business executive who has been leading Lotte Corporation as its chairman since 2011. Under his leadership, Lotte has expanded its presence in various industries including retail, hospitality, and entertainment. Shin Dong-bin is known for his strategic vision and business acumen, driving the company's growth and success both domestically and internationally. He has played a key role in shaping Lotte Corporation into a diversified conglomerate and maintaining its position as a major player in the global business arena.

Seiji Yamamoto is a renowned Japanese chef known for his exceptional culinary skills. He has achieved great success in the culinary world, earning five Michelin stars for his restaurants, notably Nihonryori RyuGin. His talent has garnered international recognition, with his restaurant being featured in The World's 50 Best Restaurants list. Additionally, he has been ranked fifth in Le Chef's prestigious list of the best chefs globally. Yamamoto's dedication to his craft and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine have solidified his reputation as a culinary master.

Masaya Hanai was a Japanese businessman known for his accomplishments in the business world. He studied at Kobe University in Japan, where he honed his skills and knowledge. Hanai's professional career was marked by his strategic decision-making and leadership abilities, which enabled him to make significant contributions to various industries. His legacy includes successful business ventures and partnerships that have left a lasting impact on the business community. Hanai's dedication and vision continue to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders to this day.

Kadoya Shichirobei was a Japanese trader known for his significant contributions to trade relations between Japan and Vietnam. He traveled to Annam, present-day Vietnam, where he established a Shinto shrine for the Japanese community. Through his efforts, he gained popularity among the Japanese people in Vietnam and played a crucial role in fostering economic ties between the two countries. His professional endeavors as a trader and community leader helped strengthen the relationship and facilitate commerce between Japan and Vietnam during his time.

Koji Kobayashi was a prominent Japanese industrialist known for his pivotal role in the transformation of NEC Corporation into a multinational electronics giant. He assumed the presidency of the company in 1964, guiding it through a period of financial turmoil post-World War II. Under his leadership, NEC Corporation flourished, and he continued to serve as its chairman until 1988. Kobayashi's legacy includes rescuing the company from bankruptcy, overseeing its rebuilding phase, and establishing it as a significant player in the global electronics industry.

Kohei Matsuda, the grandson of Mazda founder Jujiro Matsuda, started his career at Toyo Kogyo in 1961. He rose through the ranks to become president of Mazda, where he made significant contributions by introducing rotary engine-powered cars in Japan. Matsuda played a key role in shaping Mazda's direction and innovations during his tenure. In addition to his automotive achievements, Matsuda also had a notable presence in the sports world as the owner of the Japanese professional baseball team Hiroshima Toyo Carp.

Hajime Mitarai was a Japanese industrialist known for his significant contributions to the bubble jet printer technology. He assumed the role of president at Canon Inc in 1993, following in the footsteps of his father, Takeshi Mitarai. Under his leadership, Canon experienced substantial growth and success. Mitarai's tenure as president was marked by innovation and a focus on expanding the company's presence in the market. He played a pivotal role in shaping Canon's trajectory until his retirement, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the technology industry.

Naoharu Yamashina, a Second World War veteran, faced financial challenges post-war. He established a toy-distribution division within his wife's brother's textile business, which later became the separate company Bandai-ya and eventually evolved into Bandai Co., Ltd. Serving as president and chairman, Yamashina led the company to great success. Despite initial struggles, he demonstrated resilience and entrepreneurial spirit in building and growing the business, showcasing strong leadership skills and strategic vision in the competitive industry.

Keizo Saji was a prominent Japanese business tycoon known for leading the alcoholic beverage conglomerate Suntory Ltd. He had a strong entrepreneurial spirit, inheriting his passion from his family's legacy in the industry. Beyond his success in the business world, Saji was also a patron of the arts, establishing a music foundation and an art museum in Tokyo. His contributions to both the business and cultural realms solidified his reputation as a multifaceted leader with a keen eye for innovation and creativity.

Yasuda Zenjirō was a prominent Japanese entrepreneur known for founding the Yasuda zaibatsu. He made significant contributions to the business world, establishing a successful business empire that bore his name. Additionally, he played a key role in philanthropy, donating the Yasuda Auditorium to the University of Tokyo. His legacy in business and charitable endeavors solidified his reputation as a respected figure in Japanese society, leaving a lasting impact on both the economic and educational sectors.

Z.Y. Fu, also known as Dze Nyoe Fu in Shanghainese or Fu Zaiyuan in Mandarin, was a Chinese-Japanese entrepreneur and philanthropist. He founded the Sansaio Trading Corporation of Japan and made significant contributions to the business world. His legacy includes the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science at Columbia University, named in his honor due to his generous donation. Fu's professional life was marked by his entrepreneurial spirit, philanthropic endeavors, and lasting impact on education and engineering.

Roi Zorzi, also known as Roi Hagen, is an Italian-born Japanese neo-fascist with a background in Asian languages and a PhD. He moved to Japan in 1974, becoming a citizen in 1989. Zorzi is involved in the financial management of luxury fashion stores in Europe, specializing in items like bags, furs, and leather. He has been linked to controversy, including accusations of dealing furs under an alias and tax evasion, with his name appearing in the Pandora Papers in connection to a luxury home purchase through a shell company.

Yoshiaki Murakami is a prominent Japanese investor and former bureaucrat of MITI known for founding the "Murakami Fund" and Murakami Family Foundation. He gained recognition for actively engaging as a shareholder in publicly traded companies, advocating for maximizing shareholder value through strategic investments and proposals. Despite facing legal challenges related to insider trading, Murakami's investment style focuses on optimizing cash reserves and assets to enhance enterprise values. His involvement in facilitating the merger between Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. and Showa Shell Sekiyu K.K. showcases his ability to bridge gaps between management and stakeholders for mutual benefit.

Batara Eto is a prominent Japanese businessman recognized for co-founding the popular social networking site, mixi. He presently holds the role of Chief Technology Officer at mixi. Eto's professional endeavors extend to his co-founding of the venture capital firm, East Ventures. Eto's contributions to the tech industry and entrepreneurship have solidified his reputation as a key figure in the Japanese business landscape, particularly in the realms of social networking and investment.

Robert Charles Chien is a Japanese-Chinese entrepreneur based in the Philippines. He is the president of Ambient Media, a company that offers various media services to the local film industry. Chien is a successful businessman with a background in multimedia. While he prefers to maintain a low profile and shies away from the limelight, he is known for his expertise in the industry. Chien's professional life revolves around his work in the media sector, where he has made a significant impact.

Koki Ando is the current president and CEO of Nissin Foods Holdings Co. Ltd. He joined Nissin Foods in 1973 and quickly rose to become the head of marketing. During his tenure, he played a key role in developing popular food products like Yakisoba U.F.O and Donbei Udon. Following the passing of his father, the inventor of Top Ramen and Cup Noodles, Koki Ando took on leadership of the company. With a background in commerce and experience at Columbia University, he continues to drive innovation and growth in the food industry.

Yasuo Takei founded and chaired the Japanese consumer finance company, Takefuji, which was once the most profitable in Japan. However, his professional reputation suffered in 2004 when he was arrested, found guilty, and received a suspended sentence for illegal wiretapping and defamation of character. This tarnished the image of Takefuji, which had thrived under his leadership. Despite his past successes, Takei's involvement in criminal activities led to a downfall in his career and the company's standing in the industry.

Takashi Ishihara was a prominent Japanese businessman known for his pivotal role in the success of Nissan Motor. He is recognized for his significant contributions to the company's growth and global recognition. Ishihara played a crucial role in expanding Nissan's presence internationally, particularly in the United States, where he helped popularize the brand. His leadership and strategic decisions were instrumental in establishing Nissan as a renowned automobile manufacturer on a global scale, leaving a lasting legacy in the automotive industry.