Kumamoto City Implements Multilingual Communication via LINE Thanks to transcosmos

Kumamoto City Enhances Communication with Multilingual LINE Account

In recent developments, Kumamoto Prefecture has taken significant measures to improve communication with its residents, especially those connected to foreign countries. As of March 30, 2026, Kumamoto City's LINE official account has upgraded to a multilingual platform, thanks to the collaborative efforts of transcosmos and transcosmos online communications. This upgrade includes the introduction of an automated message translation feature known as KANAMETO, a tool designed to support digital transformation in local governments.

Since 2018, Kumamoto City has utilized its LINE official account to disseminate a variety of information, such as event announcements, childcare updates, health advisories, and community safety measures. It has become a vital communication channel for the local government. Amidst growing international contact and the need for inclusivity, the city recognized that expanding its services into multiple languages would enhance outreach and effectiveness.

The upgraded LINE official account offers messaging options in several languages, including English, Chinese (both Simplified and Traditional), Korean, Indonesian, Nepali, and Vietnamese, in addition to Japanese. This multilingual approach ensures that foreign residents can easily access pertinent information relevant to their lives in Kumamoto.

Upon following the Kumamoto City LINE official account, users are greeted with a message that prompts them to configure their message settings in their preferred language. This feature empowers users to receive messages not just in their selected language but also allows the option to view messages in the original Japanese text simultaneously. This dual-text approach fosters complete understanding and engagement.

Moreover, the innovative Rich Menu feature in KANAMETO allows for customized menus that cater to the chosen language settings of the users. This means that whether a user opts for messages in English or any other supported language, they will be presented with tailored content, enhancing their overall experience.

The intention behind this enhancement is twofold: to streamline administrative communications and to elevate convenience for the citizens of Kumamoto. As digital technologies transform the landscape of public service, transcosmos and transcosmos online communications are committed to furthering this initiative, solidifying their role in promoting regional digital transformation.

About KANAMETO
KANAMETO is essentially a LINE-powered Government Digital Transformation (DX) tool offered by transcosmos online communications inc. As a joint-stock venture involving transcosmos, LY Corporation, and Salesforce, KANAMETO equips local governments with the means to digitize an array of resident services. These include segmented messaging, automated FAQ chatbots, disaster response updates, citizen reports on public infrastructure issues, services related to My Number cards, childcare consultations, oversized garbage collection bookings, and online payments, among others. Today, more than 300 local governments across Japan utilize KANAMETO to better serve their constituents through efficient public service delivery.

About transcosmos
Founded in 1966, transcosmos has continually strengthened its position in competitive environments by integrating skilled personnel with advanced technology. Operating from 186 bases across 36 countries, the company focuses on both optimizing costs and expanding sales for its clients. As the global e-commerce market grows, transcosmos has also stepped up to provide comprehensive global e-commerce services that cater to consumers in 46 countries worldwide. This commitment to client success and societal improvement defines transcosmos’s mission—'Make It Real, Together.'

For further information, you can visit their respective websites for KANAMETO and transcosmos, although some details might not be available in translated formats yet.

In summary, the multilingual evolution of Kumamoto City's LINE official account marks a progressive step towards inclusivity and effective governance. With tools like KANAMETO, local authorities can foster deeper connections with their diverse communities, bridging the communication gap through modern technology.