The new club seems to have exactly the kind of concept I’m looking for, and I’d really like to join, but my annual income is under ¥40 million. Would it be impossible for me to become a member?

Let me jump in with an answer too. I’m genuinely happy that you relate to the concept!! An annual income of ¥40 million is one benchmark we use, but even a multimillionaire doesn’t get to ignore the rules or receive special treatment. And if someone earning ¥30 million is extremely gentlemanly, handsome, and incredibly kind to me, I might still find my heart wavering. I might even beg him to join somehow! Lately, I’ve also noticed that on dating apps, things like “income verified” in the income section have become a selling point for men. So there’s no doubt that displaying that kind of status gives them an advantage with women.

Maezawa here with an answer. When the new club first opened, we set the requirement at an annual income of ¥40 million or more. However, someone pointed out that, for tax-planning reasons, even people who actually earn ¥40 million may report a slightly lower income. So we’re considering allowing people to meet the membership requirements even if they don’t earn ¥40 million, provided they have substantial assets. We’ve also nearly finalized what those criteria will be. We’re not in a position to announce the details yet (as there’s still a possibility we’ll go back to an income-only requirement), but when you apply, could you contact us and say, “I don’t meet the income requirement, but I heard there may be other ways to qualify”? That said, meeting the income or asset requirements doesn’t mean that anyone can automatically join. Things like: - Appearance (the person themselves) - Appearance (their clothing and what they wear) - Personality are also part of the screening criteria. Appearance, though… Whether someone is handsome or unattractive is partly something they’re born with. If they were rejected for that, some people might think, “Then what was the point of everything I’ve worked so hard for?” Still, we decided to include it in the screening criteria on the assumption that someone earning around ¥40 million a year should be careful about their grooming and clothing, so it shouldn’t be an issue. But still… Being told, “You can’t join because your face is unattractive,” or “You can’t join because your legs are too short,” would really hurt ＞＜ “What? Even if I earn ¥100 million a year, I still can’t join?” “Yes. Women wouldn’t like your face, so you’re not eligible.” That’s how it might end up sounding… (Scary…)