It is with profound sorrow that we announce that Keisuke Kafuku, Founder and Honorary Chairman of the World Mode Holdings Group, passed away peacefully on the morning of June 5, 2026, at the age of 85. We share this news with our deepest gratitude for the kindness and friendship he was shown throughout his life.
In accordance with the wishes of the deceased and his family, a private funeral was held on June 7, attended only by close relatives. We sincerely apologize for the delay in sharing this notice.
We would like to share the story of our founder, Keisuke Kafuku, and the founding spirit we now carry forward.
The Founding Spirit
Driven by a single wish — to give back to the fashion industry — Keisuke Kafuku founded a consulting firm in 1999, dedicated to solving the challenges of brand and retail businesses. When the world's foremost cosmetics retailer entered the Japanese market, he was entrusted with running its stores. And when that brand later withdrew from Japan, he worked tirelessly to protect the livelihoods of the 300 sales staff and store managers who had brought those stores to life, finding each of them a new place to work, so that not one person was left without a job.
Through this experience, he arrived at a conviction he often expressed: "Only a human being can truly reach and move the heart of a customer. This, more than any other, is an industry where people make the difference. To nurture people and send them out into the industry — that is the truest contribution one can make to the world of fashion." Guided by this belief, he shaped the company into one devoted to the fashion industry, to the power of education, and to growth across the country — a company built around people.
The values Keisuke Kafuku held dear remain our compass to this day.
Raising the standing of sales professionals raises the standing of the fashion industry itself.
To cherish our employees is to cherish our customers.
Only a company that keeps evolving — and remains beloved — will endure.
Even the name "World Mode" was born of our founder's wish: that we connect Japan with the world. We inherit that passion, and the founding spirit that places people at its heart. His vision will live on in the hearts of every member of our group.
If you can dream it, you can do it.
— The words our founder, Keisuke Kafuku, left us, and the creed of our company
A Memorial Gathering
In loving memory of our founder, Keisuke Kafuku, we wish to hold a modest gathering of remembrance, and we respectfully extend this invitation to all who showed him such warmth and kindness during his life.
Details
- Date & Time
- Friday, August 28, 2026
Reception opens 14:00 · Memorial gathering 14:30–16:30 - Venue
- The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka
2-5-25 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001, Japan - Attire
- Everyday attire is welcome; formal mourning dress is not required.
- Tributes
- We respectfully and gratefully decline condolence gifts, flowers, and offerings of any kind.
Your presence and kind thoughts alone are more than enough for him and for our family.
Hosted by World Mode Holdings Co., Ltd.
We have chosen to hold the gathering in Osaka, the city Keisuke Kafuku always called home. For those who would have to travel far, please do not feel the slightest obligation to attend. We could never wish to impose upon your time, nor ask you to make a long journey on our behalf — your kind thoughts alone are more than enough. Should you happen to be nearby, or should the timing simply suit you, we would be truly glad if you would stop by, with no formality whatsoever.
June 29, 2026
World Mode Holdings Co., Ltd.
President & CEOShinsuke Kafuku