Korean Dating Apps Expand into Japan, Plan Further Growth

Korean dating app operators are increasing their focus on international markets, particularly Japan, as growth in their home market slows.

Companies such as Enrise (operator of Wippy), Cupist (Glam), and Triplecomma (Gold Spoon and The Members) have launched services in Japan over the past two years. Enrise introduced Wippy Japan and a Korea-Japan matching feature. Cupist launched Twenties Tokyo for Korean men and Japanese women, along with its preference-based Cabbit service. Triplecomma debuted the premium app Hills High in April 2026 and plans a Korea-Japan marriage matching platform by 2028.

The companies cite limited new user acquisition in Korea as a primary reason for expansion. A recent survey of 1,017 people in their 20s and 30s found that 70% have no intention of using dating apps, despite 80% expressing interest in dating. Common concerns include difficulty finding serious relationships, fraud, fake profiles, and data privacy risks.

In contrast, Japan is viewed as a more receptive market with fewer negative perceptions of dating apps. Local governments, such as Kochi Prefecture, have even introduced subsidies for app usage fees among singles aged 20-39 to address low birth rates.

Financial performance of the Korean companies has been strong. Enrise reported revenue of 34.2 billion won and operating profit of 2.4 billion won last year. Cupist achieved revenue of 16.3 billion won and operating profit of 1.9 billion won, while Triplecomma recorded revenue of 11 billion won and operating profit of 1.8 billion won. However, executives believe further growth requires overseas expansion.