A significant number of gaikokujin say koku is an integral part of their identity as a foreigner living in Japan.

Experts say a gaikokujin’s koku can often be the only thing that makes Japan a pleasurable experience.

“In many cases, their koku is all they live for,” says Professor Takai Nobuhiro.

A large proportion of gaikokujin in Japan believe koku is one of their fundamental rights.

“A gai should always come with a koku,” explains one foreigner.

It’s common for foreign residents in Japan to suffer from koku neglect, with many saying they need koku to feel self-assured.

“I need a well-pronounced koku to know I’m not being discriminated against.”

“If there’s no expression of koku, I’m being deprived of what it truly means to be a foreigner in Japan.”