Tokyo Govt To Launch New Dating App To Give Singles A "Gentle Push" To Find Someone
It's a way to boost Japan's declining birth rate.
In a bid to boost the dwindling birth rate in Japan, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government will be launching a new dating app
According to Japan Today, the app targets adults living, working, or studying in Tokyo and aims to connect like-minded individuals based on shared values.
The app distinguishes itself from other dating platforms by implementing a unique, government-backed vetting process.
It also uses AI to match users with suitable partners based on their personal information.
Image via Nicole Geri/Unsplash
Users need to share their marital status, proof of income, and complete an online interview to confirm their identity
"We learned that 70% of people who want to get married aren't actively joining events or apps to look for a partner. We want to give them a gentle push to find one," said a Tokyo government official in charge of the new app, according to The Japan Times.
A matchmaking event in Yokohama where parents introduce their children to each other.
Image via Mainichi/Nao Ikeda
Japan's birth rate has been on a steady decline for years, reaching a record low in 2023
The country's Health Ministry stated that the 727,277 babies born in Japan last year represented a 5.6% decrease from the previous year — the lowest number since Japan began compiling the statistics in 1899.
This marks the eighth consecutive year of decline, and is a major concern for Japan as it leads to a shrinking population.
The government is worried about the impact on the economy and social security system, and it is looking for ways to reverse the trend.
Image via Yuriko Nakao/Reuters/The Independent
The basic system for the new dating app's browser version has been in place since December last year
The website is known as Tokyo Futari Story and is open to anyone to join.
However, the app has yet to be released.
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