The 2025 Osaka World Expo officially kicked off last Sunday (April 13), launching its six-month run to massive crowds. And of course, the Expo's official mascot, Myaku-Myaku (ミャクミャク), has been sparking a buying frenzy with its various collaborative merchandise.
This past Wednesday (April 16), an unexpected and hilarious scene at a high-level government meeting in Japan became the talk of the internet. As Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba took his seat, his eyes immediately landed on a Myaku-Myaku doll on the table. "Oh, it's Myaku-Myaku-kun~ Good boy," he murmured, gently stroking the doll. Then, in a blink, his expression shifted to serious mode, and he launched into discussions about regional revitalization and former U.S. President Trump's tariff policies, sparking widespread public amusement.
Shin Tsuchida, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Finance, posted on X, recounting the 7:55 AM meeting: "Prime Minister Ishiba sat down, stared at the doll on the table, and quietly said, 'It's Myaku-Myaku-kun~ Good boy~' while gently petting it. Then, his expression instantly changed, and he started seriously discussing regional revitalization and Trump's tariff policies... I still can't get that image out of my head."
This "instant switch" from the Prime Minister's adorable moment not only left the officials present thoroughly impressed but also went viral, igniting a firestorm of online discussion.
Other netizens quickly shared photos from the scene, with many exclaiming, "The PM's true love for Myaku-Myaku is real!" Some even pointed out that Ishiba's actions weren't just for the cameras but "a genuine outpouring of affection he'd show even without an audience." Netizens couldn't help but declare him "a hardcore fan" and "absolutely hilarious."
Many netizens commented that this is exactly the kind of behavior fans exhibit, admitting they often pet their own dolls for a sense of mutual encouragement. "Never seen a PM like this before, LOL!" they exclaimed.
As the topic exploded, more netizens started playfully joking about the Prime Minister. Some quipped, "Has PM Ishiba been possessed by Myaku-Myaku?" "Did his soul get swapped?" "Our PM is completely smitten!" "Is this the beginning of Japan's conquest plan?" "He's not just a fan; he's the one being 'pushed' now!"
Another netizen pointed out that while PM Ishiba is known for his serious demeanor, this "tsundere" charm makes him seem approachable and adorable. "Who knew the PM could be so cute?" "He seems like a boy at heart," and "If he started a 'nuikatsu' (doll life) account after stepping down, I'd totally follow it!"
Of course, some netizens also weighed in on the PM's display, suggesting that while it might be a bit unconventional for a Prime Minister, it revealed a rarely seen softer side of a politician. Perhaps it's a way to de-stress amidst the tense atmosphere of national politics.
This whole incident clearly shows that the Expo mascot, Myaku-Myaku, has truly achieved high popularity and status in the hearts of Japanese people. With the Expo's opening ceremony today and its six-month run ahead, if you're planning a trip to Japan, don't miss out!
via： togetter