The Baltic Pavilion at the World Exposition in Osaka said Friday that its display of the expo’s official mascot, Myaku-Myaku, was stolen from the reception area, prompting officials to call for the return of the character figure that has gone viral among visitors.
“Very sadly, hardworking Myaku-Myaku at the Baltic Pavilion suddenly disappeared. Any idea where Myaku-Myaku is now?” Lithuanian Ambassador to Japan Aurelijus Zykas said on social media as his country is showcasing exhibits in the pavilion with Latvia.
Photo taken on May 16, 2025, shows the reception of the Baltic Pavilion at the World Exposition in Osaka, where the stolen figure of the expo mascot “Myaku-Myaku” had been displayed with the pavilion’s character “Barabi-chan.” (Kyodo) ==Kyodo
Photo shows the Baltic Pavilion at the World Exposition in Osaka on May 16, 2025, where the figure of the expo mascot “Myaku-Myaku” was stolen. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo
The post on X also included security camera footage showing two people snatching the red and blue mascot figure.
According to the pavilion, a staff member noticed the figure was missing from the reception area around noon on Tuesday.
“It is regrettable that such a theft occurred at the expo site. We want it to be returned,” a pavilion official said.
Myaku-Myaku — a mysterious creature said to be born from the fusion of cells and water — was initially seen by some as creepy, with five eyeballs scattered around a bobbly, doughnut-shaped red ring, another eye on its tail and a dripping blue body.
But it has gained popularity among visitors since the expo opened on April 13, with long lines forming as people try to take photos with a Myaku-Myaku statue at the venue and merchandise selling well.
Photo shows stuffed dolls of 2025 World Exposition mascot Myaku-Myaku at an expo shop in Osaka, western Japan, on April 18, 2025. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo
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AloJapan.com