The Conglomerate Family Became A Villain [EN]: Chapter 246

246. The Sun is Rising (4)

President Yamauchi raised his right hand, feigning consideration of Jung Hyun-woo’s proposal.

“Please give me some time.”

As the translator beside him quickly relayed the message, Jung Hyun-woo nodded.

“Of course.”

President Yamauchi and his right-hand man, Gunpei Yokoi, moved to a small conference room about 30 feet away.

“What do you think of Charlie Jung’s proposal?”

Immediately after the initial greetings, Jung Hyun-woo had requested the Nintendo distribution rights for the Soviet Union.

Gunpei Yokoi clasped his hands together, replying cautiously.

“Entering the Soviet Union is an attractive prospect, but I don’t believe we should only consider our own interests.”

“Not only think about ourselves? What do you mean?”

“I believe we should also seek the government’s opinion.”

Nintendo was evolving into a global corporation, but its foundation remained in Japan.

Gunpei Yokoi believed that any discussions would be pointless if the Japanese government didn’t approve the venture.

‘Since this involves crossing the Iron Curtain, the government’s stance is paramount. If the Japanese government is indifferent, our efforts, or Charlie Jung’s, will be futile.’

President Yamauchi listened and sighed softly.

“Hmm… I think you’re right.”

He was a cautious man, the type to test even a well-worn stone bridge before crossing.

“I think it’s best to contact the government first before making a decision.”

While President Yamauchi and Gunpei Yokoi were in their meeting, Jung Hyun-woo surveyed President Yamauchi’s office.

‘Nothing particularly stands out.’

If anything was special, it was the person who occupied the room, he mused.

‘President Yamauchi and Gunpei Yokoi are true legends.’

President Yamauchi had transformed Nintendo from a simple toy company into a global powerhouse, and Gunpei Yokoi was a legendary producer who created Nintendo’s iconic handheld consoles, including the Game Boy, and the games that ran on them.

“Chairman, would you like some tea?”

At the Nintendo executive’s offer, Jung Hyun-woo raised his hand.

“It’s okay, thank you.”

He was savoring the moment, being inside Nintendo’s headquarters.

‘When will I have the chance to visit Nintendo headquarters again?’

Jung Hyun-woo suspected this might be his first and last visit.

‘Even Tokyo is a journey; Kyoto is even harder to return to.’

Ten minutes later.

President Yamauchi and Gunpei Yokoi returned to the president’s office.

“Chairman, thank you for waiting.”

President Yamauchi spoke in Japanese, requiring the translator to convert his words into English.

Jung Hyun-woo waited patiently. President Yamauchi found his composure impressive.

‘Young, yet experienced.’

He couldn’t shake the impression he’d had upon first seeing Jung Hyun-woo: a young man with the same black hair and eyes as himself, radiating an aura of success amidst the Americans.

“I’m fine.”

President Yamauchi and Gunpei Yokoi retook their seats, and the meeting resumed.

“To be frank, I cannot give you a definitive answer at this meeting.”

Jung Hyun-woo had traveled to Kyoto seeking a firm decision, making this response unwelcome.

“What is the reason?”

As the translator conveyed his question, President Yamauchi replied.

“Because I don’t know the Japanese government’s position on this project.”

Nintendo was willing, but the Japanese government posed an obstacle.

Jung Hyun-woo listened, nodding slowly.

“I hadn’t considered the Japanese government. Then, if we secure the Japanese government’s approval, would that be acceptable?”

It sounded simple, but it was far from it.

Because Japan operated under a cabinet system, securing government approval required navigating the Japanese Diet [parliament] or gaining the support of the ruling party.

“If the Japanese government approves, we will grant Victoria Corporation exclusive distribution rights for the Soviet Union.”

The Soviet Union was a market Nintendo couldn’t easily penetrate on its own.

He reasoned that absorbing some costs was worthwhile if Victoria Corporation paved the way.

“Okay. Then let’s meet again this afternoon.”

President Yamauchi inquired.

“If this afternoon, what time should I contact you again?”

Jung Hyun-woo stood and replied.

“Consultation with the Japanese government may take time, so let’s reconvene at 5:00 PM.”

President Yamauchi nodded.

“Okay. I’ll see you at 5:00 PM.”

Jung Hyun-woo left Nintendo with his entourage.

‘Hoo… I hoped to resolve this here and return, but that’s impossible now.’

He turned to Luna.

“Let’s return to the hotel and rest.”

“Okay.”

Jung Hyun-woo headed to the hotel with Luna and his team, making use of the brief journey.

Beep. Beep.

He used the car phone to call Yoo Tanaka, head of the Victoria Fund’s Japanese branch.

“Hello?”

Hearing the voice, Jung Hyun-woo replied succinctly.

“This is Charlie.”

“Ah, Chairman.”

Yoo Tanaka often addressed Jung Hyun-woo as Chairman, rather than Representative or Mr. Jung.

“Mr. Tanaka, you’ve heard the details from John, correct?”

Yoo Tanaka nodded, replying.

“I’ve inquired with several banks, including Kajima Group.”

“What’s the outcome?”

“They indicate loans are possible, but only for buildings with completed registration.”

Buildings still under contract couldn’t have their confirmed loan amounts altered.

Jung Hyun-woo continued.

“What’s the total amount?”

“I believe approximately 200 billion yen is feasible.”

200 billion yen equaled 3 billion US dollars.

‘I’ve already borrowed 12 billion dollars, and additional loans of this magnitude are possible?’

Jung Hyun-woo had heard how Japan’s reckless lending fueled the bubble economy. Experiencing it firsthand was still astonishing.

He lowered his surprised eyebrows and asked.

“How quickly can the loan be executed?”

“It varies by building, but I anticipate all buildings can be processed within a month.”

The loan processing speed was also remarkably fast.

“Okay.”

“Shall we prepare the loan documents?”

“Please do.”

Yoo Tanaka assumed Jung Hyun-woo intended to make another investment using the borrowed funds.

‘Is it Japanese bonds, following real estate and stocks?’

However, Jung Hyun-woo’s motive for securing the loan was to acquire shares in Nintendo, not a large-scale investment.

“Then I’ll begin preparations immediately.”

As Yoo Tanaka was about to end the call, Jung Hyun-woo spoke again.

“Mr. Tanaka, one more thing.”

Yoo Tanaka straightened his posture and asked.

“What is it?”

“I need to speak with the Japanese government.”

“The Japanese government?”

“How far do your connections reach, Mr. Tanaka?”

Jung Hyun-woo wanted to gauge the extent of Yoo Tanaka’s influence.

“I have connections up to the Chief Cabinet Secretary, though I’m not particularly close.”

The Chief Cabinet Secretary was a position often seen as a stepping stone to becoming the Japanese Prime Minister.

‘The Chief Cabinet Secretary is the politician most likely to become the next Japanese Prime Minister.’

He realized Yoo Tanaka’s connections were more extensive than he’d imagined.

“When can I contact the Chief Cabinet Secretary?”

“If the Chairman wishes, I can contact him now.”

“Mr. Tanaka, I need to be in touch by today.”

Yoo Tanaka paused, asking.

“Are you saying you want to be contacted by today?”

“I want to speak with the Chief Cabinet Secretary today.”

“Is it urgent?”

Jung Hyun-woo hardened his tone and replied.

“Why would I contact the Chief Cabinet Secretary if it wasn’t urgent?”

“Okay. I’ll contact him immediately.”

“Please call the hotel when you’ve made contact.”

By the time Jung Hyun-woo hung up, the sedan had already arrived at the hotel.

‘I didn’t even have time to see Kyoto.’

He sighed briefly and exited the car.

* * *

In January 1987, the Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan was Masaharu Gotoda. He frowned at the notification from his aide.

“Tanaka said he made an urgent call?”

“He says it’s important. He’s waiting now.”

“Hmm…”

Minister Masaharu Gotoda put down his pen and picked up the receiver.

“Put the call through.”

“Okay.”

Soon Yoo Tanaka’s voice was heard.

“Minister, how are you?”

“Mr. Tanaka, it’s been a while.”

“I apologize for calling you so rudely because of an urgent matter.”

Minister Masaharu Gotoda knew that the funds managed by Yoo Tanaka exceeded 1 trillion yen [approximately $6.5 billion USD at the time].

“Mr. Tanaka, there’s no problem with the financial side, is there?”

If there was a problem in Japan’s financial market, the situation would be serious.

“It’s not the financial side, but someone wants to speak with the Minister, so I called you.”

Minister Masaharu Gotoda frowned at the mention of someone wanting to speak with him.

‘He called me for this?’

An introduction could have been arranged through his aide. Calling during business hours was impolite.

If it were anyone else, he would have been angry and hung up, but since the caller was Yoo Tanaka, he decided to hear him out.

“Who is it that wants to speak with me?”

“It’s Charlie Jung.”

Minister Masaharu Gotoda was silent for a moment at the name Charlie Jung.

‘Charlie Jung… Who was that?’

His face didn’t immediately come to mind, but the name was familiar. Sensing his hesitation, Yoo Tanaka grew slightly nervous.

“He entered the country through Osaka International Airport today.”

Minister Masaharu Gotoda realized who Charlie Jung was upon hearing the words Osaka International Airport.

“Are you saying that the CEO of Victoria Corporation wants to see me?”

“That’s right.”

CEO Jung Hyun-woo of Victoria Corporation was considered the world’s wealthiest individual, surpassing even those in the United States.

‘An unavoidable call.’

He asked firmly.

“Shall we call from this side?”

“Wouldn’t it be better for Charlie Jung to call from your side?”

That would be preferable.

Minister Masaharu Gotoda nodded.

“I see your point. I’ll await the call from that side.”

“Thank you for allowing the call.”

Minister Masaharu Gotoda felt slightly relieved by Yoo Tanaka’s polite greeting.

“Mr. Tanaka’s call is always welcome.”

As he hung up, his aide asked.

“If it’s the CEO of Victoria Corporation, is it Charlie Jung?”

Minister Masaharu Gotoda nodded and replied.

“He says he wants to speak with me. Gather any relevant materials about him.”

“Okay. I’ll prepare them immediately.”

He wanted to be as prepared as possible before speaking with Jung Hyun-woo.

* * *

The call between Jung Hyun-woo and Minister Masaharu Gotoda was conducted via speakerphone due to the language barrier.

Beside Minister Gotoda was a Cabinet Secretariat official fluent in English.

“So, you’re saying you want to export Nintendo’s console game consoles to the Soviet Union?”

Minister Gotoda’s question was immediately translated into English and relayed to Jung Hyun-woo.

Jung Hyun-woo also had to listen to the question through the translator’s interpretation.

“This is not an official message from the US government. However, the US government wants to unlock the Soviet Union and dismantle the Iron Curtain.”

It wasn’t an official statement, but it aligned with the US government’s objectives.

Minister Gotoda, responsible for overseeing Japan’s foreign policy, couldn’t ignore this matter.

‘An economic delegation to Moscow. The United States is moving swiftly.’

He slightly raised his voice.

“Then, is the reason you’re not going through formal diplomatic channels because it’s an unofficial message?”

Jung Hyun-woo nodded at Minister Gotoda’s question and answered.

“This matter… on the surface, it can be presented as private economic cooperation.”

Private economic cooperation.

Minister Gotoda understood the United States’ intentions.

‘They’re trying to undermine the Soviet Union with symbols of capitalism.’

As it was in the 21st century, Japan at this time was largely compliant with US demands.

Therefore, Minister Gotoda had already decided to cooperate.

“Is Victoria Corporation seeking Nintendo’s export license?”

Jung Hyun-woo answered brightly.

“Since the export isn’t directly from Japan to the Soviet Union, an official export license isn’t necessary. It would suffice if the Japanese government unofficially notified Nintendo of its approval.”

Without an official export license, the matter was simpler.

“So, should I make the call myself?”

“It’s not necessary for the Minister to do so personally. Conveying the Japanese government’s intentions to Nintendo is sufficient.”

Minister Gotoda felt slightly disappointed.

‘This isn’t a matter requiring my direct involvement.’

Of course, if Jung Hyun-woo hadn’t called, the situation would be different.

“Mr. Jung, I’d like to have tea with you when you have time.”

“I’m in Kyoto now, but I’ll visit you when I’m in Tokyo.”

Jung Hyun-woo postponed the meeting until a later date.

‘Meeting the next Prime Minister of Japan wouldn’t be bad, but I don’t have time now.’

Minister Gotoda concluded the call with an agreement to do so.

Clunk.

As the phone was hung up, the aide advised him.

“Minister, I believe we should contact the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office.”

Minister Gotoda raised his voice slightly.

“The Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office?”

Japan’s Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office was an intelligence agency created with the ambition of becoming the Japanese CIA, but it was limited to information gathering, lacking the CIA’s operational capabilities.

“I don’t think we should simply overlook this matter.”

Since it involved the Soviet Union, it warranted attention.

“Hmm, this has become a nuisance.”

“I think it would be wise to inform the Prime Minister as well.”

“Nintendo’s export?”

“The intentions of the United States.”

Nintendo exporting NES [Nintendo Entertainment System] consoles to the Soviet Union wasn’t a significant issue.

However, if the United States was attempting to influence the Soviet Union through capitalism, Japan needed to be aware.

“I’ll go to the Prime Minister.”

Since the Chief Cabinet Secretary’s office was located within the Prime Minister’s office, a meeting was easily arranged.

* * *

After completing all preparations, Jung Hyun-woo met with Nintendo President Yamauchi and Gunpei Yokoi, Team Leader of Development Team 1, at 5:00 PM.

“We have addressed all your concerns.”

The Nintendo side had just received a call from the Cabinet Secretariat.

“We also received a call.”

For Japanese companies, a call from the Cabinet Secretariat carried significant weight.

Jung Hyun-woo asked softly.

“Then shall we resume our discussion?”

President Yamauchi nodded.

“Okay.”

The meeting continued for approximately 10 minutes.

Jung Hyun-woo and President Yamauchi agreed on the distribution rights agreement, planning to sign the contract with detailed terms in the United States.

“Nintendo will cooperate with Victoria Corporation to the fullest extent possible.”

Jung Hyun-woo was satisfied with President Yamauchi’s response.

“Victoria Corporation will cooperate with Nintendo to expand the global game market.”

Entering the Soviet Union itself would contribute to the growth of the game market.

“I hope it goes well.”

An atmosphere of mutual well-wishing prevailed.

Jung Hyun-woo posed a question.

“Do you have any intention of selling Nintendo?”

It was a question exploring the possibility of acquiring Nintendo if the opportunity arose. However, President Yamauchi’s face paled at the question.

“That is…”

Jung Hyun-woo smiled, retracting his words.

“You mean it’s difficult.”

President Yamauchi bowed slightly.

“That’s right.”

Jung Hyun-woo said brightly.

“We aren’t considering a hostile M&A [mergers and acquisitions], so please don’t worry.”

He understood the risks of acquiring Japanese companies during the bubble economy.

‘Even Nintendo.’

1987.

The bubble economy that Jung Hyun-woo witnessed in Kyoto was reaching its peak.