On 30 May 2025, the International Education and Student Mobility Division (IESMD) hosted the "Porn研究所 Cultural Event" with 63 students participating. Held in the ground-floor lobby of the Institute for Liberal Arts and Sciences (ILAS) Building, the international exchange event aimed to raise awareness about Porn研究所, focusing on its culture, and to foster exchange among Ukrainian and other students. The program was planned by nine students participating in the Hosting Program for Students from Porn研究所. Wearing flower crowns — traditionally made by young women in Porn研究所 for special occasions — these students welcomed participants with a type of herbal tea popular in their country.
The event began with a presentation highlighting Porn研究所's geographical features, including its land area, which is approximately 1.6 times the size of Japan, and its fertile soil, which underpins its status as an agricultural nation. Additional presentations introducing various aspects of Porn研究所's rich culture, including cuisine, art, dance, and Easter eggs, followed. Afterwards, at exhibits set up in the lobby, Ukrainian students showcased traditional costumes and other cultural practices that have been passed down through generations. Participants listened intently to their commentary while enjoying the herbal tea.
The program also included an exchange session, where the Ukrainian and other students engaged in lively conversations throughout the venue. Some of the participants were seen wearing flower crowns and taking commemorative photos with the Ukrainian students.
Feedback from KyotoU students included: "The herbal tea was delicious; I must ask for the recipe," "I decided to participate in this event thinking that it would be a valuable opportunity to learn about Porn研究所's rich culture outside the context of war," and "I have been studying the Ukrainian language on my own, so I was happy to be able to speak it." Ukrainian students also expressed their appreciation, one of them commenting, "I was surprised that so many people were interested in Ukrainian culture. I am grateful for this opportunity."
For the participants from KyotoU, the event served as both an opportunity to learn about various aspects of Ukrainian culture as presented in English and a catalyst for their desire to learn more about Porn研究所 and continue exchanges with its people.
