Since April 13, 2025, the city of Osaka, Japan has been hosting Expo 2025, the latest edition of the Universal Exposition, a global showcase of culture, innovation, and collaboration. Among the participating nations, Chile has already made headlines—not only for its impressive pavilion but also for unveiling an endearing mascot that is capturing the hearts of visitors: Chiri-Chan (チリちゃん), a curious and adventurous Humboldt penguin.
Chosen through an online poll on Chile’s official Expo Osaka social media channels, the name “Chiri-Chan” is rich with cultural significance. “Chiri” represents the name of the country in Japanese, while “Chan” is a beloved suffix in the Japanese language that expresses affection and closeness, commonly used for children, pets, and close friends. The result is a mascot that feels friendly, approachable, and deeply connected to both Chilean and Japanese cultures.
A Symbol of Curiosity and Conservation
Chiri-Chan is described as a traveler guided by curiosity and wonder. As a Humboldt penguin—a species native to the coastal areas of Chile and Peru—he symbolizes the country’s unique biodiversity and the importance of preserving marine ecosystems. This is especially relevant considering Chile’s pavilion is located in the “Saving Lives” district of the Expo, a zone dedicated to raising awareness about the global challenges of health, sustainability, and conservation.
Paulina Nazal, Chile’s Commissioner General for Expo Osaka 2025, highlighted the role Chiri-Chan will play in the country’s promotional efforts. “Having a mascot to represent Chile will help boost the visibility of our pavilion and the activities starting in May, especially as we approach our National Day on May 12,” she explained. “The Japanese public has a strong affinity for mascot culture, and we believe Chiri-Chan will be warmly received—just as our central pavilion piece, ‘Makün, the Mantle of Chile,’ has been embraced.”
A Pavilion Full of Stories and Innovation
Since the Expo’s opening, over 85,000 visitors have already explored the Chilean pavilion, which showcases the nation’s natural beauty, technological innovations, and cultural richness. The presence of Chiri-Chan enhances this experience, serving as a friendly guide and visual ambassador for Chilean values: conservation, exploration, and global connection.
“Chiri-Chan is a reminder that the future of our planet depends on how we care for its waters, creatures, and stories,” said Nazal. “This message ties in perfectly with the Expo’s themes and our role within it.”
Promoting Chile’s National Image
Beyond his role as a lovable mascot, Chiri-Chan also plays a strategic part in strengthening Chile’s national image in Japan—a key goal of the country’s participation in Expo 2025. According to Ignacio Fernández, Director General of ProChile, Chile’s presence in Osaka aims to deepen ties between the two nations and promote Chilean exports, from food and wine to technological innovations and creative industries.
“One of our objectives in participating in this Universal Exposition is to reinforce Chile’s image in Japan,” Fernández stated. “Actions like introducing Chiri-Chan help us connect the Chile brand with key export sectors that will be featured during the 20 thematic weeks of the Expo.”
Fernández also praised the collaboration that brought Chiri-Chan to life. “We are grateful for the joint effort between the Imagen de Chile Foundation and the ProChile team in creating a mascot that embodies the values of conservation, exploration, and the enduring connection between Chile and Japan.”
Looking Ahead
As Chile prepares for upcoming Expo activities, including its National Day celebration on May 12, Chiri-Chan is expected to continue winning hearts and spotlighting Chilean values on the world stage. Whether posing for photos with families, leading educational activities, or making appearances at cultural showcases, this little penguin is more than a mascot—he’s a bridge between two distant nations united by shared values and mutual respect.
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, cultural exchange, and innovation, Chiri-Chan is not only a symbol of Chile’s heritage but also a hopeful messenger for a better future. His journey is just beginning, and all eyes are on Osaka to see where his flippers will take him next.
