Rubi Foundation Releases 'Can Furigana Improve Academic Performance?' in Full-Furigana Format via Poplar Publishing

The Rubi Foundation aims to create a society where learning is accessible to everyone by promoting the use of furigana (reading aids) in publications and digital content.

As part of these efforts, the foundation will release a new book by founder Ohki Matsumoto titled 'Can Furigana Improve Academic Performance?' on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, through Poplar Publishing.

The book is produced in a 'full-furigana' format, with reading aids provided for every kanji character.

Students often 'skim read' texts without fully understanding them, and many adults abandon specialized literature because they encounter kanji they cannot read. If the reading of a kanji is known, one can look up its meaning; however, if one cannot read the character at all, they cannot even stand at the threshold of learning.

An environment where everyone can freely read what they desire leads to the acquisition of knowledge and the expansion of learning. Conversely, opportunities for furigana in publications and content have been decreasing in recent years.

This book explores why furigana usage has declined while examining the relationship between furigana and academic improvement.

It also includes special dialogues with Tsutomu Nomizu, Principal of Kaisei Junior and Senior High School, and Teruo Fujii, President of the University of Tokyo, to delve into the essence of 'learning' from multiple perspectives.

■ Online Sale on YouTube Channel 'Yurindo Shika Shiranai Sekai'
An online sale of the book will be held on the popular YouTube channel 'Yurindo Shika Shiranai Sekai' on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

- Stream Date/Time: June 9, 2026 (Tue), 19:00 - 20:30
- Sale Time: 19:30 - 20:30 (Ends when sold out)
- YouTube Live URL: https://youtube.com/live/VKr3jOox-rQ
- Purchase URL (Yurindo Online Store): https://yurindo-store.jp/products/9784591190135
- Limited Quantity: 5,000 copies
- Special Bonus: Original design book cover

■ Related Video
Founder Matsumoto appeared in a video released on June 2 (Tue) titled '[Trivia] The World of Books About Furigana,' where he discusses the history and role of furigana, centered on this new book.
- Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqcWjzPuF2E

■ Author Profile: Ohki Matsumoto
Founder and Councilor of the Rubi Foundation, and Chairman of the Board of Monex Group. Born in Saitama in 1963. After graduating from the University of Tokyo Faculty of Law, he held key positions in the financial industry. He has been in his current position since April 2025.