KoreLock Partners with KKE and WEST to Transform Japan's Smart Lock Market

KoreLock, Inc. proudly announces its strategic partnership with Kozo Keikaku Engineering (KKE) and WEST Lock to grow the commercial market for Wi-Fi Direct Smart Locks across Japan. Together, we have launched three modern IoT smart locks: the RemoteLock 9j Touchpad Smart Lock, RemoteLock 9j-Q Touchpad Smart Lock, and the WEST E06 Touchpad Smart Lock. These products leverage KoreLock’s patented IoT technology and are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the Japanese market.

Recently, I met with Yuichi Ohara, KKE’s US-based market liaison, to learn more about this exciting project.

“KKE’s long-term goal is to expand Japan’s smart lock market with high-quality, locally suitable products that integrate seamlessly with modern IoT platforms,” said Mr. Ohara.

Wise Innovation Tailored for Japan

The collaboration began over six years ago. KKE Japan wanted to offer smart locks that fit Japanese door dimensions and customer expectations. This challenge was not met by the US-designed models previously distributed. Traditional Japanese locks and door standards differ significantly from US specifications. Installing the imported models often required major modifications. Additionally, those models offered little support for features unique to Japan, such as QR code-based access and IC card-based access.

WEST Lock emerged as the perfect innovation partner. They provide local Japanese manufacturing support and stylish designs that match the aesthetic preferences of prestigious commercial and hospitality clients.

Roles of the Partnership

• KKE: Market development, distribution, and customization insights to adapt the product to Japanese standards.

• WEST Lock: Engineering and manufacturing of lock hardware tailored to Japan’s door sizes and design preferences.

• KoreLock / RemoteLock: Development of the IoT platform, firmware, and access control software that powers the smart locks, ensuring secure and user-friendly operation.

  
  

Seamless Integration of Hardware and Software

The KoreLock IoT technology platform integrates WEST Lock’s cutting-edge hardware with RemoteLock’s cloud-based access control software. This integration creates a highly intuitive user interface. Facility managers and end-users can manage access efficiently via mobile apps or web portals. The platform supports secure Wi-Fi direct communication protocols optimized for Japanese commercial environments. This ensures fast, reliable, and convenient access control.

Meeting Market Needs with Advanced Features

The development of Wi-Fi Direct smart locks with keyless access responds to a clear demand in Japan’s commercial sectors. Businesses seek enhanced security, ease of use, and stylish design. These locks empower them to eliminate physical keys, reduce management overhead, and improve safety—critical factors in hotels and offices.

The 9j-Q Touchpad Smart Lock model includes a unique QR code access feature. This adds flexible, contactless entry options, especially valuable during health-conscious periods and for managing temporary or guest access.

Market Focus and Commercial Success

The new smart locks are currently in use in various commercial markets. These include hospitality, corporate offices, and real estate sectors. Initial installations have shown strong adoption in urban centers such as Tokyo and Osaka. Resort destinations are also seeing interest, particularly among boutique hotels and office buildings that value high design standards coupled with state-of-the-art IoT security.

KKE primarily sells through a carefully selected network of distributor partners experienced in property technology solutions. This strategy enables broad reach and localized customer support.

Positive Customer Reception and Future Outlook

Customers have praised the smart locks for their seamless installation, reliable performance, and elegant appearance.

“Our new lock models have improved guest satisfaction by providing seamless, secure keyless entry that complements the hotel's premium brand image,” added Mr. Ohara.

Looking ahead, the partners anticipate rapid growth in Japan’s smart lock market. This growth is driven by the broader trend toward smart building technologies and IoT-enabled facility management. KKE, WEST, and KoreLock are committed to leading innovation efforts. We aim to expand product lines and continually optimize the user experience.

About KoreLock

KoreLock, Inc. is an IoT technology company. We provide turnkey embedded Smart Lock solutions that enable manufacturers of door locks or access control hardware to build and sell connected locking devices. KoreLock, Inc. is a privately held company based in Denver, Colorado.

About Kozo Keikaku Engineering, Inc. (KKE)

KKE is a professional design and engineering firm. We act as a bridge between the academic and business worlds. KKE strives to solve various issues and challenges that society faces. We utilize our engineering expertise acquired through knowledge exchanges in diverse fields. KKE is based in Tokyo, Japan.

About WEST Locks

WEST Locks is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) of innovative security products. Founded in 1933, the company serves the building hardware industry. WEST Lock is known for exceptional design and was awarded a Gold iF Design Award in 2008. The company is based in Osaka, Japan.