Dentsu Decodes the Evolution of Friendships Across Asia
Dentsu Youth Research Unit: Wakamon, publishes whitepaper on the changing
friendship values of Gen Z across seven Asian markets
Singapore, 18 April 2024: Dentsu is pleased to launch its latest whitepaper, ‘Exploring
Future Insights’, a comprehensive study on the evolving concept of friendship from the
perspective of Gen Z across seven Asian markets – Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand,
Vietnam, The Philippines and Malaysia.
The 150-page report is published by dentsu Youth Research Unit, Wakamon, a planning
and creative unit with a focus on building a better understanding of young people with the
ultimate goal of promoting a harmonious relationship between the younger generations
and society.
By next year, Gen Z is expected to represent 25% of APAC’s population, and this growing
demographic has significant decision power which has seen brands funnelling millions of
advertising dollars to generate brand loyalty. It is a generation that has grown up in the
digital world, is more conscious social and environmental justice than any generation
before, leans in greatly into technology and its evolution and constantly finding ways to
improve their experiences.
Through its Tsugikuru method of inquiry (Tsugikuru may be loosely translated as
“foresight” or “what comes next” and is a highly collaborative and iterative method of
qualitative inquiry), Wakamon regularly generates Gen Z insights which are employed in
the service of dentsu’s clients for marketing, business transformation consulting and other
services.
From the past’s inescapable or ‘eat from the same pot’ friendships to today’s Metaverse
and AI friendships, ‘Exploring Future Insights’ report aims to provide valuable insights
for planners who are interested in understanding the values and perceptions of this next
generation, as well as serve as a resource for businesses seeking to implement people-
driven insights to steer business transformation.
In this exploration of friendship across seven Asian markets, the report uncovers
insightful nuances and variations in how this fundamental human connection is
perceived. Here are some of the key highlights:
1. Digital transformation and social interaction
• Generation Z, growing up in the era of technology, smartphones and social
media, has redefined the landscape of friendship. Unlike a couple of
decades ago, where phone calls and letters were the primary modes of
communication, today’s kids seamlessly navigate virtual friendships.
• The prevalence of screens doesn’t necessarily imply disconnection; rather,
it reflects a new form of socializing.
for more information check out@dentsu