“Gundam for Peace” Pavilion at Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 Aims to Redefine the Future—Not Built for War, but for Hope

◆ International Reactions to Gundam’s Cultural Reach

Momoi: In February, we exhibited at the Spielwarenmesse, the world’s largest toy fair in Nuremberg, Germany. When Gundam GQuuuuuuX came up, some foreign attendees asked, “How do you pronounce this?”

It’s understandable—unlike kanji, which are difficult for non-Japanese speakers, romanized made-up words like "GQuuuuuuX" are unfamiliar territory too. It made me realize how unique naming conventions can be across cultures.

◆ A Thoughtful, Realistic Future—Down to the Materials

— What are some of the unique Expo-specific details?

Momoi: I once heard Yoshiyuki Tomino say: “If you’re building a Star Jaburo, think about where the metal you’re using is sourced.” We took that to heart. For example, how much satellite debris could realistically be recycled into metal?

Even though it’s a futuristic setting, we wanted the world to feel grounded in present-day logic. In the latter half of the pavilion, visitors will even feel as though they’re boarding a real spaceship.

◆ Sparking the Future Through Gundam—for Everyone

— The pavilion includes elements for all ages, but what do you hope children take away from it?

Momoi: I’m most curious about how children will react. I heard a story from someone who attended the 1970 Expo as a grade schooler. He hadn’t been interested in school, but after spending a week at the Expo, he became fascinated by science—and eventually studied to become a doctor.

If just one child walks away from the Gundam Pavilion inspired to become an astronaut, saying “This experience changed my life,” that would be incredible.

Source : ORICON NEWS