On 16 December 2025, UNU will host “Connecting Cultures: How Humour Speaks Louder than Words”, a conversation with Patrick Harlan, a comedian and voice actor also known as Pakkun. This event will start at 18:30 in 2F Reception Hall at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo.
In an increasingly interconnected world, differences in language, identity, and perspective can lead to misunderstanding and division. Yet humour, with its unique ability to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries, offers a powerful tool for human connection. It can ease tensions, foster inclusive dialogue, and spark meaningful conversations where formal communication may fall short. A shared laugh is a universal thread that strengthens human bonds.
At a time when global divides feel more pronounced, humour can shed new light on current events, bridge differences and promote cross-cultural understanding. Comedy often draws on cultural and linguistic nuances, revealing the subtleties of communication and encouraging deeper mutual appreciation.
Patrick Harlan will join UNU Chief of Staff Michael Baldock for a discussion on humour as a means of connecting cultures. How can humour foster appreciation for other cultures? How and why is laughter able to break down barriers and build common ground? What are the challenges of translating humour across languages and cultures?
This event is part of the UNU Conversation Series, which aims to foster audience participation. You are encouraged to engage with the speakers during the conversation and at the reception that will follow, where all event attendees are invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while exchanging ideas and making new contacts.
Please note that this event will be in English. Advance registration (by 15 December at 15:00) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page. Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
UNU@50
This event is part of the UNU 50th anniversary celebration. To learn more, visit: https://unu.edu/unuat50
About the Speaker
Patrick Harlan, also known as Pakkun, is an American-born comedian and voice actor based in Japan. In 1997, he formed the comedy duo Pakkun Makkun, together with fellow comedian Makoto Yoshida. Harlan and Yoshida were thrust to fame following their appearances on television programs such as Eigo de Shabera Night (NHK) and JUST (TBS). Harlan is now a familiar face on TV with regular appearances on programs such as Live News It! (Fuji TV), Morning Satellite (TV Tokyo), Houdou 1930 (BS-TBS) and Jouhou Live Miyaneya (NHK).
Beyond comedy, Harlan has worked as a commentator, actor, DJ, and author. Since 2012, he has served as an adjunct professor at the Tokyo Institute of Technology, where he lectures on international relations and communications. Harlan is also a visiting professor at Ryutsu Keizai University and Kansai University.
Harlan graduated from Harvard University with a degree in the Comparative Study of Religion before coming to Japan to teach English for two years in Fukui. He has been based in Tokyo since 1996.
