Japan has many famous intellectual property (IP) titles like Doraemon and Attack on Titan. We plan to combine this IP with our artificial intelligence (AI) solution to create customized educational content and enter the global market.
On 8th at WeverseBrain's headquarters in Guro District, Seoul, Chief Executive Cho Se-won, 45, said as much. A founding member of Etoos, Cho launched WeverseBrain in Jul. 2008 to run the English education service "Speaking Max." Since then, the company has expanded with MaxAI and MaxAI World, establishing itself as an AI-based English education corporations.
◇ Domestic market matures… finds breakthrough in Japan
WeverseBrain recently entered the Japanese market. Cho said, "Korea's English education market had already leveled up, leading to cutthroat competition," and noted, "While seeking a new path, we focused on Japan, where demand for English learning and purchasing power are high."
Early this year, WeverseBrain partnered with NetLearning, a leading Japanese e-learning corporations, to make a full-fledged entry into the local market. Its key weapon is the in-house AI engine WeCoach. When users upload learning materials such as textbooks, videos, or PDFs, WeCoach generates a customized AI instructor to conduct one-on-one lessons. A recent Japanese government move to mandate Japanese-language learning for foreign workers has also created a favorable environment for WeCoach's growth.
The language education market is not a direct area of interest for U.S. big tech firms like ChatGPT, and Japanese education corporations lack technological prowess. We moved quickly to target this niche.
◇ First year in Japan brings 2.7 billion won in sales… U.S. push next year
In the first year of its Japan expansion last year, WeverseBrain posted 2.7 billion won in sales. It formed partnerships with local content corporations, splitting subscription fees whenever partners sell the product. Cho said, "This year, we are seeking to expand sales by signing MOUs and final contracts with 12 companies."
It is also accelerating external expansion at home. Previously focused on business-to-consumer services, it recently broadened into the business-to-business market. About 150 major Korean corporations, including LG, Doosan, and Hanwha, are clients.
Sales have also shifted. In the early 2020s, the company could not break the 30 billion won barrier, but thanks to MaxAI and MaxAI World powered by WeCoach, 2024 sales rose to 33.6 billion won. In the first half of this year, it has already recorded 17.4 billion won.
WeverseBrain plans to enter the U.S. market in 2026. Cho said, "If we supply AI solutions in collaboration with U.S. content corporations, we can also expand into Southeast Asia," and added, "We are the only education corporations that develops and applies AI as a fundamental technology rather than mere marketing."
He went on to emphasize, "We will expand services to 20 languages, including Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish, and lead the global education market."