Photo/Illutration Nobel laureate Shimon Sakaguchi attends a Swedish language class at the University of Osaka on Nov. 19, in preparation for his award ceremony in Stockholm next month. (Kazuhiro Fujitani)

MINOO, Osaka Prefecture—Nobel Prize-winning immunologist Shimon Sakaguchi attended a Swedish-language class at the University of Osaka on Nov. 19 to prepare for the upcoming Stockholm award ceremony in December.

Sakaguchi, 74, is a distinguished honorary professor at the university, which is the only national institution in Japan with a Swedish program.

During the session, Sakaguchi learned about Swedish society and culture from sociological and linguistic perspectives. He also practiced expressions useful for signing autographs and delivering speeches.

“I want to learn a few more phrases beyond just ‘tack’ (thank you),” he said.

Professor Daisuke Furuya, a specialist in Nordic history, outlined the cultural etiquette expected at the Nobel banquet.

He noted that the customary toast at the banquet involves saying “skal,” the local word for “cheers,” while maintaining steady eye contact; looking away is considered impolite.

Furuya also explained that seating arrangements place men and women alternately with spouses separated. The practice is meant to embody Sweden’s tradition of equality.

Sakaguchi admitted he finds it difficult to maintain eye contact.

“My wife worries about what to talk about with the person next to her for four hours at the banquet,” he said. “I’ll share what I’ve learned today so we can prepare.”

Students who studied in Sweden also gave presentations on the country’s culture and education.

Shoko Inaba, 21, encouraged Sakaguchi to embrace the atmosphere of Sweden’s long, dark winters.

“It can feel gloomy, but people have a unique way of enjoying the season,” she said. “I hope you experience that.”

After the class, Sakaguchi revealed plans to donate a plate featuring the regulatory T cell character from the popular science-themed manga “Cells at Work!” to the Nobel Prize Museum. 

The gift is a nod to the research that earned him the award honoring achievements in physiology or medicine.

When asked if he is bringing back the iconic Nobel medal-shaped chocolates as souvenirs, Sakaguchi laughed.

“I’ve already been asked for hundreds, so I’ll have to send them by courier.”

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