Given the rapid growth of the Vietnamese community in Kumamoto Prefecture, local police have launched a Vietnamese language training program for investigators to improve efficiency when working with foreign nationals.
According to local data, as of late June 2025, the prefecture is home to more than 30,000 foreign residents, an increase from the same period last year; Vietnamese nationals currently represent the largest community. In 2024, the prefecture recorded over 100 law violations involving foreign individuals.
Since 2023, Kumamoto police have been sending personnel to Vietnam for language studies lasting about a year. A 28-year-old female officer stationed at the Kumamoto Minami station is participating in this program. Since May 2024, she has spent 10 months studying at the Hanoi National University of Education while also self-studying specialized terminology for taking statements.
In addition to her regular duties, she currently provides interpretation services during working sessions and organizes traffic safety guidance for Vietnamese technical trainees.
A representative from the prefectural police stated that internal interpreters need to be both proficient in the language and well-versed in professional procedures to handle situations quickly and accurately. With the Vietnamese community continuing to grow, proactive personnel training is seen as a necessary step forward.
