Edited by Anna Popper
The World Expo has long been a platform for showcasing innovations and shaping the future. From the unveiling of the elevator at the 1853 New York Exhibition to the introduction of wireless telephones and moving sidewalks at Expo 1970 Osaka, these global events have consistently played a pivotal role in technological advancements that enhance everyday life. The upcoming Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, aims to continue this tradition by acting as a catalyst for breakthrough innovations and fostering international cooperation.
A Global Gathering in Osaka
Scheduled to take place from 13 April to 13 October 2025, Expo 2025 Osaka will welcome participants from around 161 countries and nine international organizations. Organizers anticipate over 28 million visitors, primarily from East Asia, including Japan, South Korea, and China. Given that this region represents the world’s largest source of outbound tourism, successful participation in the Expo could significantly boost inbound travel to all participating nations.
Theme and Objectives
The theme of Expo 2025 Osaka is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” This theme is divided into three subthemes:
- Saving Lives – Addressing global health challenges and improving medical technologies.
- Empowering Lives – Enhancing human potential through innovation and digital transformation.
- Connecting Lives – Strengthening global cooperation and fostering meaningful relationships among nations.
As a world stage for ground-breaking ideas, Expo 2025 Osaka aims to bring together the wisdom of the international community to create and communicate new solutions. A key focus is on achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing Japan’s national vision, Society 5.0.
Society 5.0: A Smart Future
Society 5.0 is a concept introduced by Japan as a blueprint for a human-centred, technologically advanced society. It envisions a future in which cyber and physical spaces are seamlessly integrated, improving both economic growth and social well-being. The initiative traces the evolution of society from hunting and gathering (Society 1.0) through agriculture (Society 2.0) and industrialization (Society 3.0) to the information age (Society 4.0). By leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT), Society 5.0 aims to solve pressing global challenges and create a more sustainable world.
With just five years left until the 2030 deadline for achieving the SDGs, Expo 2025 Osaka serves as a vital platform to accelerate progress. The event will highlight cutting-edge solutions, encourage collaboration, and inspire action towards a better future for all.
Symbolism: The Logo and Mascot of Expo 2025 Osaka
The official logo of Expo 2025 Osaka was chosen based on the proposals and comments gathered from the public. It embodies the essence of the Expo, representing a new era in the post-COVID world.
Alongside the logo, the official character Myaku-Myaku was introduced to engage audiences globally. This enigmatic creature symbolizes transformation and evolution, with its red “cells” representing life and its blue “pure water” signifying adaptability.
Constantly changing form, Myaku-Myaku embodies the spirit of innovation that defines the Expo.
World Expos: A Tradition of Progress
World Expos, officially known as International Registered Exhibitions, have a rich history of fostering progress. The concept dates back to the Great Exhibition of London in 1851 and has since evolved into a premier event where nations come together to address global challenges. Since the establishment of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in 1928, headquartered in Paris, France, these Expos have been organized around themes that reflect humanity’s aspirations and advancements.
The last Expo was held in Dubai from October 2021 to March 2022 under the theme “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”.
The next World Expo will be held in Osaka, Japan from 13 April to 13 October 2025, under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”.
On 15 May 2027, the Republic of Serbia will welcome the world to the Specialised Expo 2027 Belgrade, themed “Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for All”.
Expo Osaka will be followed by Expo 2030 Riyadh, in Saudi Arabia, carrying the theme “Foresight for Tomorrow”.
Conclusion
As the world stands at a critical juncture in achieving the SDGs and embracing the next phase of technological evolution, Expo 2025 Osaka promises to be a milestone event. By bringing together nations, industries, and visionaries, it will pave the way for a smarter, more connected and sustainable future. With its focus on innovation, collaboration, and human-centred progress, the Expo is set to shape the world for generations to come.
Sources: Embassy of Japan in Budapest, expo2025.or.jp and bie-paris.org
Photos from expo2025.or.jp and DPA
More information: expo2025.or.jp
