Celebrating Excellence: Announcing the 2025 Fukuoka Prize Laureates
On May 21, 2025, Fukuoka City unveiled the prestigious laureates for the Fukuoka Prize 2025. This annual accolade is dedicated to honoring exceptional individuals in the fields of Asian studies, arts, and culture. The ceremony aims to recognize those who have significantly contributed to the preservation and cultivation of Asia's diverse cultural landscape.
Grand Prize: TAKARA Kurayoshi
The Grand Prize is awarded to TAKARA Kurayoshi, a distinguished Japanese historian recognized for his groundbreaking work in the study of the Ryukyu Islands. His research has provided new insights into this unique region's history, its people, and their cultural heritage. Kurayoshi’s work not only enriches academic discourse but also fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural ties across Asia.
Academic Prize: BAIK Young-seo
The Academic Prize goes to BAIK Young-seo, a prominent South Korean contemporary historian. His focus on East Asia and the narratives of its citizens encapsulates the essence of history as it pertains to people's lives rather than just grand events. By centering the experiences of ordinary individuals, BAIK offers a refreshing perspective that resonates with contemporary audiences.
Arts and Culture Prize: VO Trong Nghia
The Arts and Culture Prize is awarded to VO Trong Nghia, a Vietnamese architect renowned for his commitment to environmentally sustainable architecture. His designs advocate for green building practices that harmonize with nature while addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change. VO's work exemplifies how architecture can be both aesthetically pleasing and ecologically responsible.
Upcoming Ceremony Details
The award ceremony is scheduled for September 16, 2025, where the winners will be honored for their contributions to Asian culture and history. Following the ceremony, public lectures by TAKARA and BAIK will be held on September 17, while VO Trong Nghia will speak on September 15. For those unable to attend, archived recordings of the lectures will be made available online.
Bookings for the events are set to open in July, with advance registration being essential, though admission will be free.
About the Fukuoka Prize
Established in 1990, the Fukuoka Prize is awarded by Fukuoka City to acknowledge individuals who have made significant strides in the preservation and creation of Asia's rich and diverse cultures. The prize has a history of celebrating extraordinary figures in various fields, having recognized 127 leaders from 28 different countries over the years, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad YUNUS and Japanese humanitarian NAKAMURA Tetsu.
As the prize celebrates its 35th anniversary, the laureates stand as a testament to the enduring spirit and creativity found throughout Asia. The Fukuoka Prize not only honors remarkable achievements but also aims to inspire future generations to appreciate and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Asian culture that transcends borders.
For more information on the Fukuoka Prize, visit
Fukuoka Prize Official Website.