July 4, 2025 — Hirofumi Aosasa, a young entrepreneur who gained popularity through the YouTube business reality show “Reiwa no Tora,” passed away on June 25, 2025, due to acute heart failure. He was 29 years old. The news was publicly announced on July 3 by his older brother, Masashi Aosasa, via social media.
Aosasa was the former CEO of Cloud9 Inc., known for managing the fashion brand CLOUD NINE, which was popular among younger generations. Affectionately known as “Ao-shacho” (President Ao) on the show, he was recognized for his calm and logical business judgments, earning him high praise from viewers.
Official Statement from Family
Masashi Aosasa posted the following statement on X (formerly Twitter):
“We regret to inform you that our former CEO, Hirofumi Aosasa, passed away on June 25, 2025, due to acute heart failure. He was 29 years old. A private funeral has already been held with close family members.”
According to the post, there had been no notable health issues, and his death came suddenly due to acute symptoms.
Shock and Mourning from Fans and Colleagues
The announcement sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, with messages such as “I can’t believe it” and “It’s far too soon.” Members of the Reiwa no Tora production team also shared their condolences, highlighting Aosasa’s significant presence on the show.
As both a company leader and a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, Aosasa had garnered considerable support. Attention now turns to how his business legacy will be carried forward.
Biography
Born in 1995, Hirofumi Aosasa started his own apparel business after graduating from university and later founded Cloud9 Inc. He made several appearances on Reiwa no Tora as one of the younger investors.
