Mr. Ilya Gouliev, a former president of JKA Europe and Union of Shotokan Karate-do Organization of Russia (USKO) has passed away on Saturday, 2nd August, 2025 at age 70.

We, JKA HQ, cannot help but feel shock and sorrow at the premature death.
Mr. Ilya Gouliev devoted himself to developing and promoting JKA Karate-do in Russia during his lifetime. The number of members and black belts of USKO which he founded shows his distinguished services to Karate in his country and JKA.
He also led JKA Europe from 2012 to 2018 by his leadership.
We feel that Japan Karate Association lost the great talent.
It’s impossible to imagine the sadness and sense of loss of his family and members of USKO.
We would like to pray for the repose of his soul and offer you all our deepest condolences.