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The Truth About Building a Startup as a Foreigner
Japan is not the easiest place to validate a startup idea — but here’s what it takes to make it work.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to succeed in one of the world’s most risk-averse markets, or if you’re tired of generic startup advice that doesn’t apply to international founders, this story is for you.
“I failed at every one of my startups.”
Originally from the U.S., Lee Jean never planned on becoming an entrepreneur in Japan. His journey started in Vietnam, where he had a well-paying job teaching at a military hospital. Life was stable. Secure.
Then, one afternoon on the basketball court, everything changed.
A casual game turned into an unexpected conversation. A stranger mentioned an accelerator program for startups. Something clicked.
Would you take the leap?
Lee did.
He applied, got in, and walked away from stability to step into the unknown.
The road ahead was anything but smooth.
One idea after another fell apart. Startup life was brutal — unpredictable, unforgiving, and filled with lessons he hadn’t expected. Still, quitting was never an option.
