[Kyoto University of Foreign Studies] Students from KUFS's Translation and Interpreting Talent Bank "LinguaLink" Provide Bidirectional Japanese-English Interpretation During ieiMedia (U.S.) Interview with Kyoto City's Director of International Policy

Four students from LinguaLink, the translation and interpreting talent bank at Kyoto University of Foreign Studies (Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward; President: Hisao Kitagami), served as Japanese-English interpreters and support staff (check interpreters) on June 18, 2026 (Thu) during an official interview conducted by ieiMedia, a U.S.-based media education organization hosted at the university, with Mr. Kunimitsu Imai, Kyoto City's Director of International Policy.

Amid in-depth discussions on complex societal challenges facing "the international city of Kyoto," such as overtourism and the preservation of traditional culture, the students drew on thorough prior research to make significant contributions to smooth and effective journalistic proceedings, gaining firsthand experience at the forefront of dynamic, real-time reporting.

[Key Points of the Event]

Practical Language Application in a Media Interview Setting

Students from the university participated as interpreters in a formal media interview conducted by ieiMedia, a globally recognized U.S. journalism education institution. The team consisted of two main interpreters and two check interpreters working collaboratively.

Advanced Interpretation Skills Addressing Kyoto's Real-World Tourism and Cultural Challenges

Students delivered accurate and fluent interpretation during sharp question-and-answer sessions involving specialized terminology related to overtourism, support for young artisans in traditional crafts, and urban redevelopment—topics requiring high-level expertise.

High Praise from Kyoto City's Director of International Policy

Following the interview, Mr. Kunimitsu Imai, Kyoto City's Director of International Policy, commended the students for their outstanding interpreting skills and exceptional proficiency in English.

[Background and Event Details]

ieiMedia is a U.S. educational organization that delivers international journalism and media training programs worldwide. This delegation visited Kyoto City Hall to investigate Kyoto's global policies and the current state of its traditional culture.

During the interview, Mr. Imai first presented on "Kyoto's New Challenges: Woven from Unique Charm and Philosophy," outlining fundamental issues facing the city, its long-term vision for the next 25 years, and strategic international policy initiatives. This was followed by a series of real-world, multifaceted questions from ieiMedia students on topics including current overtourism conditions and countermeasures, support for young artisans in traditional crafts, and urban redevelopment projects.

The four KUFS students worked closely together, with two serving as main interpreters and two as backup check interpreters responsible for verifying technical terms. In this high-pressure, professional environment, they accurately conveyed the intent of both parties, ensuring the smooth progression of the media interview.

Director Imai speaking about Kyoto's policies and challenges; KUFS students participating with thorough preparation; excellent teamwork throughout; group photo at the end with all participants

[Student Growth and Future Outlook]

For the students, interpreting in a fast-paced, evolving interview setting was an extremely valuable challenge. Their meticulous preparation paid off, enabling them to accurately interpret complex discussions. This experience significantly enhanced not only their language abilities but also their deep understanding of societal issues and their capacity for quick, on-the-spot responses.

Kyoto University of Foreign Studies will continue to leverage campus resources such as LinguaLink to provide students with direct engagement opportunities in local and global society. The university remains committed to offering practical learning experiences and cultivating future leaders with rich "human capabilities" who can contribute to peace and progress in the international community.

[Inquiries Regarding This Matter]

Public Relations Office, Office of the President, Kyoto University of Foreign Studies

TEL: 075-322-6219 / FAX: 075-322-6751

E-mail: kufs_pr@kufs.ac.jp

URL: https://www.kufs.ac.jp/