From Stage to Screen: How Hakuhodo Technologies, the core technology arm of Hakuhodo DY Group, Used D-ID Avatars to Drive Real Engagement

A Case Study

Name: Hakuhodo Technologies

Meeting Japan’s Rising Demand for Virtual Humans

When the rising demand for virtual humans in Japan met the need for authentic, real-time interactions, Hakuhodo Technologies turned to D-ID’s streaming avatar technology for delivery.

Hakuhodo Technologies, the core technology arm of the Hakuhodo DY Group, one of the world’s top 10 integrated marketing and innovation groups, partnered with D-ID to create personalized, culturally resonant virtual experiences while addressing complex technical challenges, including Japanese-language latency. The collaboration led to breakthrough projects, from a live avatar stage event to an award-winning “AI rap business card”, showcasing how next-generation AI can power more engaging brand experiences.

About Hakuhodo DY Group: A Leader in Innovation and Advertising in Japan

Hakuhodo DY Group consists of 453 subsidiaries and affiliates with a combined total of over 29,386 employees working in over 30 countries and regions around the world. The group consistently ranked among the world’s top 10 largest agency groups by Ad Age and it is a second largest agency group in Japan. 

The company leverages world-class research and marketing skill, outstanding creativity, and deep digital expertise to craft innovative, human-centered marketing solutions tailored to each client’s needs.

Growing Demand for Virtual Humans: HAKUHODO Technologies’ Challenges and Needs

Rising Market Demand and Language Barriers in Japan

The demand for virtual humans is rapidly growing in the Japanese market, with many companies actively seeking services that can be integrated into their proprietary systems and promotional initiatives. However, no providers were offering fully developed and reliable solutions to meet this demand.

Additionally, the limited availability of high-quality Japanese-language datasets posed a major challenge in developing voice systems capable of delivering fluent, natural Japanese speech.

HAKUHODO Technologies’ Expectations for Customized Avatar Solutions

HAKUHODO Technologies anticipated further development in avatar variety and customization to help businesses deliver more personalized and culturally resonant virtual experiences. They sought a solution that combined technical excellence with scalability and cultural relevance.

Why HAKUHODO Technologies Chose D-ID as their AI Avatar Solution

Criteria for Choosing a Streaming Avatar Provider

HAKUHODO Technologies selected D-ID’s Premium+ avatars with streaming API integration based on the following criteria:

• Low-cost and fast implementation of custom avatars.
• High delivery quality suitable for professional, large-scale use.
• Technology leadership: HAKUHODO Technologies trusted D-ID’s leadership in facial replication and lip sync innovation from the outset of the partnership.

Building a Japan-Specific Streaming Pipeline: The Implementation Process

HAKUHODO Technologies and D-ID worked closely to develop a Japan-specific delivery pipeline, integrating D-ID’s avatars with a specialized Japanese-language text-to-speech (TTS) model.

One initial hurdle was high latency, which hindered real-time interaction. The team successfully reduced response times to under three seconds through dedicated optimization efforts, enabling smooth, engaging live experiences.

Real-World Deployments and Long-Term Benefits of Virtual Human Integration

HAKUHODO Technologies deployed D-ID’s technology in two innovative projects:

Automobile Sector Event

At a major industry event, a company executive engaged in a live on-stage interaction with his own avatar, enhancing the presentation’s quality at minimal cost and production time by using D-ID and the company’s TTS model.

The event’s success sparked discussions about implementing virtual sales representatives across the client’s broader sales platforms.

AI Rap Business Card

HAKUHODO Technologies developed a new service, the AI RAP BUSINESS CARD, powered by D-ID. This service allowed users to create personalized rap music videos introducing themselves, which could be shared as digital business cards.

Launched at a company orientation ceremony for several hundred new employees, the project received widespread media attention. It was shortlisted for the Media Creative award at the ACC Tokyo Advertising Awards which is Japan’s biggest advertising awards. It also received worldwide recognition for winning Technology category gold and Internal Communication category silver at PR Awards Asia-Pacific, Internal Communication category WINNER at IPRA GOLDEN AWARDS.

At JPM SHOW 2025, HAKUHODO Technologies introduced an AI-powered in-store customer-service system where shoppers can interact with four virtual-human avatars, including famous public figure and former pro wrestler Riki Choshu, to uncover their “future scenario” through real-time dialogue and receive tailored product recommendations. 

This experience helps reduce comparison fatigue, encourages additional purchases, and provides retailers with valuable customer insights while supporting more efficient store operations.

Expected Ongoing Business Advantages

HAKUHODO Technologies emphasizes that success comes from setting clear creative goals and finding synergy between ideas and technology. With D-ID’s powerful platform, companies can push the boundaries of what’s possible when imagination meets innovation.

• Expansion of virtual human capabilities across sales, marketing, and internal communications.
• Greater personalization in client and employee engagement.
• Increased creative applications of AI technology to drive brand differentiation.