Business

$20 Billion Osaka Expo Off To A Rocky Start

A “Web3” wallet, an off-putting mascot, and a complex ticketing system have led to disappointing ticket presales for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

Haider Jamal
March 17, 2025

A Confusing Wallet

The Expo, which is a cashless event, is promoting the use of a digital wallet that does not accept decentralized cryptocurrencies. Instead, it pushes the United Nations’ SDGs, such as insect-food vending machines in Japan to address climate change and overpopulation.

Source: X (@expo2025japan)

However, the event’s official wallet app also offers monthly log-ins for users to earn an SBT (Soulbound Token) and a commemorative NFT for the 1970 Osaka World Expo. This has led to widespread confusion as many believe the wallet’s purpose is contradictory.

A Disturbing Mascot

Besides the controversial wallet, the event has also been criticized for its mascot, Myaku-Myaku, which has drawn negative reactions on social media for its disturbing appearance, with some calling it “disgusting” or “like a monster.”

Lastly, some speculate that Expo 2025 could even become a breeding ground for a new virus, though the organizers have yet to respond to these concerns.

Join Our FREE Newsletter

Subscribe to stay informed and receive latest updates on the latest happenings in the crypto world!

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Crypto Weekly, 36 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON, M5V 3T3, http://cryptoweekly.co. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Haider Jamal

Content Strategist

Haider is a fintech enthusiast and Content Strategist at CryptoWeekly with over four years in the Crypto & Blockchain industry. He began his writing journey with a blog after graduating from Monash University Malaysia. Passionate about storytelling and content creation, he blends creativity with insight. Haider is driven to grow professionally while always seeking the next big idea.