In this exclusive interview, Thailand’s Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thapsutin, delves into how the pavilion reflects the nation’s identity through architectural design, cultural showcases, and groundbreaking medical innovations. From the integration of Thai heritage in its structural elements to its vision of becoming a global healthcare hub, the pavilion is set to captivate visitors. The exhibition will also highlight Thailand’s unique culinary culture, medical breakthroughs, and wellness tourism, all contributing to the country’s ambition to lead in global health and sustainable living.
How does the architectural design of the pavilion reflect Thailand’s identity?
The Land of Immunity aims to connect people around the world with Thai-style living through the atmosphere of a land rich in resources and the way of life of its people, which helps create well-being both physically and mentally for the Thai population. It demonstrates the potential of the country from the past to the present, positioning Thailand to form strong and sustainable connections globally.
The architectural design is based on the main concept, aligning with the objective of expressing Thai identity. It incorporates elements that create a relaxing atmosphere, offering a memorable and enjoyable experience for those visiting the exhibition. The atmosphere evokes a sense of fun, comfort, and relaxation and emotions that resonate with most visitors to Thailand.
The design concept for the architectural identity incorporates elements of ancient Thai architecture that clearly communicate Thai culture and are recognizable worldwide. Features include the roof shape with “Chom Ha” as a guiding line, the reduction of angles to create a balanced scale, the use of intricate rattan patterns to showcase the connection between beliefs and Thai wisdom, and the use of traditional Thai colors and materials, crafted with great attention to detail.
How does the Thai exhibition building align with Thailand’s vision to become a global medical hub?
Inside the exhibition, there will be a presentation that takes you on a journey through the rich land of Thailand, abundant in natural resources and beautiful cultural traditions. As a global health center, Thailand will showcase 10 charms of the country, 100 healthcare potentials, 1,000 medical service facilities, and 10,000 health-conscious Thai dishes that have made Thailand the kitchen of the world. Through the experience of Thai lifestyle, visitors can also purchase 100,000 products that enhance immunity, ensuring that no matter where you are in the world, you can access the health benefits of Thai wisdom. All of this will leave you with 1,000,000 smiles of unforgettable memories.
What elements of Thai culture and innovations are featured inside the Thai exhibition building?
Culinary Culture: Thailand’s abundance of natural resources and biodiversity makes the country rich in ingredients, herbs, and traditional Thai dishes, with over 10,000 varieties that can be continually reimagined and transformed into new flavors. The exhibition includes:
Interactive Wall “Create Your Health Menu”: Visitors can freely select colorful ingredients and herbs through a smartphone game to create their own menu, while also contributing to the creation of an Art Dish Wall showcasing a variety of healthy menus.
Interactive Table “World-Ranking Thai Cuisine”: Visitors can watch animations of world-renowned Thai dishes such as Pad Krapow, Pad Thai, and Massaman Curry. The experience engages all five senses: sight, taste, smell, sound, and touch.
Thailand Pavilion represents a significant opportunity for Thailand to showcase its potential in healthcare and medicine on the world stage, as well as to introduce Thai architecture, art, culture, and the unique charm of Thailand to a global audience.
Somsak Thapsutin, Thailand’s Minister of Public Health
Display “Thai Cuisine from 4 Regions”: A display of healthy regional dishes, such as Nam Prik Pla Too (Central region), Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiew, Gaeng Om Pla Duk, and Gaeng Khamin Tai Pla which are created from local Thai ingredients.
Display “Food Product Innovations”: Showcasing products that meet modern lifestyles in the “Future Food” section, including items like spring rolls made from natural ingredients and protein noodles made from egg whites.
Cultural Performances: Showcased through traditional attire, Thai massage, and performances such as Muay Thai, the Four Regions Dance, the Royal Dance for the King, and traditional Thai puppetry (such as Bunraku-inspired puppets from Japan).
Medical Innovations: Highlighting Thailand’s medical services and healthcare standards, offering international-level services at over 1,000 medical and wellness centers in the country. The exhibition includes a search system for visitors to access information on common medical treatments sought by medical tourists in Thailand, with hospitals accredited by JCI standards. It also presents wellness tourism, with Thai World Class Spas and natural tourist destinations.
What health innovations will Thailand’s representatives present at EXPO 2025 Osaka Kansai to attract global attention?
Thailand will present in-depth information on 50 medical innovations which are AI innovation for diabetes screening through eye examination, Hemostatic sponge made from rice flour, 3D-printed bone replacements, Pencil-shaped robots to assist with elderly care, Telemedicine by using digital technology to allow patients to consult with doctors for advice and diagnosis through video conference systems on real-time applications and Medical Valley, a special economic zone for innovation in comprehensive medical services at Thammasat University’s Pattaya Center. The aim is to establish a model for a comprehensive medical innovation center, covering both the medical and healthcare industries.
What message does the Ministry of Public Health wish to communicate to international participants, and how can they access the Thai exhibition building?
Thailand Pavilion represents a significant opportunity for Thailand to showcase its potential in healthcare and medicine on the world stage, as well as to introduce Thai architecture, art, culture, and the unique charm of Thailand to a global audience. Therefore, we invite people from all over the world to come and experience the essence of Thailand through sight, taste, smell, sound, and touch at the Thailand Pavilion at EXPO 2025 OSAKA, KANSAI, JAPAN, from April 13 to October 13, 2025, in Osaka, Japan.
