A Korean startup 1Self.World, which operates the hyper-personalized identifier-based digital marketing platform MyB, has secured approximately USD 1.1 million (KRW 1.5 billion) investment from Crit Ventures. The company is currently in the midst of its Pre-Series A funding round.

The investment was made through the YoungFrontOne Crit Metaverse Fund, which has previously invested in BuffitSeoul, Doctor Now, BuildBlock, Finders AI, and BioResearch AI.

1Self.World’s platform MyB analyzes user preferences to provide engaging, personalized quizzes and rewards, while enabling advertisers to overcome the limitations of traditional ad identifiers and achieve more effective targeting. Notably, MyB allows precise targeting for iPhone users, a significant breakthrough in digital advertising. Since its launch in April last year, the platform has surpassed 700,000 users within just nine months.

Unlike traditional app-tech models that focus on step counters or challenge-based incentives, MyB stands out by incorporating gamified quizzes with customized rewards based on user interests. Users can earn “Preference Badges” by completing weekly quizzes, which can be exchanged for gift cards, gold, and other real-world rewards within the app.

To address growing concerns over data privacy, 1Self.World has developed a proprietary hyper-personalized advertising identification technology that shifts ownership of ad attribute data to users. The company also holds a domestic patent for this technology, ensuring compliance with evolving privacy regulations while enabling highly effective audience targeting.

Jaejoon Song, CEO of Crit Ventures, stated, “1Self.World is set to revolutionize the ad-tech market by integrating AI-powered personalization into digital advertising. We expect the company to rapidly gain a competitive edge, not only in Korea but also in the global market with its proprietary technology.”

Changhyun Cho, CEO of 1Self.World, commented, “With this investment, we will enhance our machine-learning-based recommendation engine and further develop AI-driven quiz events. Additionally, we are preparing to expand into the ad network business, allowing our unique identifier technology to be utilized across other mobile platforms.”