Visitor numbers surged after revamp
As of October 5, 2025, the 173rd day of the event, total visitor numbers reached 1,981,922, nearly 2 million people. Despite early criticism, the post-revamp results were positive, indicating that the enhanced content successfully attracted international visitors.
After the event concluded, DDC director-general, Dr. Montien Kanasawadse, stated that under the theme “Healthy living, happy life,” Thailand’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka was a success in line with the government’s medical and wellness hub policy.
Throughout the exhibition, more than 2 million visitors experienced Thai culture through modern architecture, traditional Thai massage, and herbal displays, featuring professional Thai massage practitioners. Performances such as Khon, classical Thai dance, and folk shows captivated audiences and promoted Thai culture globally.
Thai food also played a starring role, with exhibits showcasing healthy menus, herbal-based local dishes, and future foods, all available for purchase. Sales exceeded expectations, reaffirming global enthusiasm for Thai cuisine.
The pavilion’s mascot, “Nong Phumjai,” was ranked among the top mascots of Expo 2025. Business-matching sessions also enabled Thai and international entrepreneurs to connect, strengthening Thailand’s reputation in health, culture, and creative economy.
When compared to Expo 2020 Dubai, which ran from October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022, with a similar budget of around 889 million baht and 2.35 million visitors, Thailand’s performance in Osaka was considered comparable despite early challenges and public debate.
Ultimately, the Thailand Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka stands as an important test of large-scale government project management. The key question remains whether the 867-million-baht investment will deliver tangible economic and image-building results. While officials insist all procedures complied with regulations, the public continues to watch closely to see whether the investment proves truly worthwhile.
AloJapan.com