Baltic Pavilion calls for return of stolen Osaka expo mascot figure
KYODO NEWS - 3 minutes ago - 20:26 | All, Expo, Japan
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.
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.
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