Data used in CiteSpace

This study employs bibliometric analysis and CiteSpace to map the evolution, key contributors, and emerging trends in intercultural competence research from 2015 to 2024. Drawing on 1,319 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection, the analysis examines publication trends, identifies active countries and institutions, highlights influential authors and journals, and explores research hotspots and future directions. The findings reveal substantial growth in intercultural competence research, with the United States, China, and the United Kingdom leading in output and collaboration. Key thematic areas include intercultural communication in education, global competence training, and cultural adaptability. However, the field faces challenges such as fragmented research and limited consensus on conceptual frameworks. Emerging trends suggest a growing focus on technology-mediated intercultural learning and the application of intercultural competence in diverse professional contexts. This study consolidates fragmented knowledge, providing a structured overview of the field’s development while highlighting critical gaps and opportunities for future exploration. The findings offer valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to enhance intercultural competence training and its application in globalized settings. By addressing conceptual inconsistencies and expanding into underexplored areas such as digital intercultural communication, future research can further advance the field and support its role in fostering effective global engagement.