Yuya Kikukawa holds a Master’s degree in Art Engineering from Tokyo Metropolitan University. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Human Augmentation at the University of Tokyo’s Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies. In 2014, he established no new folk studio (now ORPHE Co., Ltd.) as a result of his research on smart footwear and succeeded in commercializing smart footwear at an early stage globally. With “IoT for expression” as its guiding concept, his company develops innovative products and services across sports, medicine, and healthcare, powered by advanced motion analysis and real-time feedback through visuals and sounds. He has been recognized with multiple awards, including the Japan Good Design Award, the Japan Media Arts Festival Jury Recommendation, and the Grand Prize at the Japan Sports Agency INNOVATION LEAGUE Contest.