The relationship between Bhutan and Kyoto University started in 1957. Initially, professors of Kyoto University such as Prof. Takeo Kuwabara welcomed and guided Her Majesty Kezang Choden Wangchuck, the Queen of the Third King of Bhutan, in Kyoto. The following year, Dr. Sasuke Nakao, who was a graduate of Kyoto University, became the first Japanese person to conduct research activities in Bhutan. In 2010, Kyoto University professors met with His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan, who was the first to advocate the concept of GNH, Gross National Happiness. Through this meeting, the Kyoto University Bhutan Friendship Program (KU-Bhutan) was subsequently launched, which aims to play a key role in strengthening and further developing important friendship and collaboration between Bhutan and Kyoto University. In August of 2013, an MOU was established between Royal University of Bhutan and Kyoto University. On July 11th, 2016, using Kyoto University Institute for Advanced Study as the window, an academic exchange program was implemented between Kyoto University and all the colleges of Royal University of Bhutan, to promote collaborative research.

As of this year, it has been 60 years since Kyoto University and the Kingdom of Bhutan began their relationship. As a unique contribution to international service, Kyoto University has been serving as a bridge between Japan and Bhutan's academic exchange, by working with the Kingdom of Bhutan on building equal partnerships in research, education and contributions to society. While focusing on GNH, these events welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck and Kyoto University professors (President Juichi Yamagiwa, et al.), to provide a platform where the future can be discussed between Bhutan and Kyoto University.