17LIVE Group acquires Japanese entertainment startup

The company said it will strengthen its virtual IP business.

SGX-listed live-streaming platform, 17LIVE Group Limited has acquired Japanese entertainment startup mikai Inc. (mikai) which owns a VTuber production company.

17LIVE said the acquisition strengthens its virtual IP business, enhancing its platform with mikai’s virtual influencer portfolio.

It will also accelerate its V-liver business by integrating mikai’s branding and will foster closer partnerships with existing V-livers, providing them with guidance that is crucial for the success of IP development.

mikai will continue to focus on discovering and nurturing new VTubers, leveraging 17LIVE's live-streaming platform to amplify their visibility and engagement.

"VTuber content is rapidly gaining traction alongside video games and anime films. With the growing global demand for anime and virtual content, joining 17LIVE is a pivotal step in unlocking further growth opportunities together,” Takahiro Uemura, CEO of mikai Inc., said.