Bandai looking to introduce Japanese government ID checks for admission to card game events

Bandai, the company that manages collectible trading card games based on popular franchises like One Piece, Dragon Ball, Naruto, Gundam, and Digimon, is considering introducing a new system for verifying the identities of customers attending their events. The announcement was made through Bandai Card Games' official Twitter account on August 5, 2026.

The new system would require customers to present a Japanese government-issued My Number Card, which serves as both an identification card and a national pension/national health insurance card. This card includes the bearer's name, photo, home address, and date of birth. While the My Number Card shares information with other forms of identification, the system Bandai is proposing would necessitate verification through this specific card, not an alternative such as a driver's license or student ID.

Resident Japanese citizens aged 15 and older, as well as foreign residents, are eligible to obtain a My Number Card. However, this means that tourists visiting Japan may be unable to attend certain Bandai Card Games events due to the requirement. Additionally, not all residents have applied for a My Number Card, with some expressing concerns about privacy and the security of government data handling/storage protocols.

Bandai Card Games is encouraging those without a My Number Card to apply for one as soon as possible, as the process can take some time. The company is also exploring the possibility of expanding the system's use to other areas in the future, potentially requiring My Number Card verification for purchasing specific items. This aligns with Bandai's efforts to combat scalpers, who buy large quantities of products to resell at inflated prices.

By requiring a My Number Card, Bandai aims to identify and block individuals purchasing unusually large quantities of items that are clearly not for personal use.

While the introduction of this system may be welcomed by true fans who wish to see the end of scalpers' schemes, it may also lead to inconvenience for foreign tourists who are unable to attend events due to the My Number Card requirement.