The Republic of Korea has hosted two Specialised Expos, officially known as International Recognised Exhibitions. These Expos have the power not only to create a strong impetus for local development, but also for bringing global attention to specific issues facing the world. Above all, these events enormously enhanced Korean appreciation of Expos as they showcased their capacity to open up the host city to the world and to take a leading view of global issues. Most notably with Expo 2012 Yeosu, the organisation of such an event changed perceptions and is considered as the foundation for organising bigger international events.

As Expo 2017 Astana draws to a close, the international participants are eager to learn who will win the Expo 2017 Official Participant Awards. At each Expo, an international jury assesses different aspects of the pavilions, recognising those that stand out.

At the last Specialised Expo, which took place in Yeosu (Republic of Korea) in 2012, a total of 24 gold, silver and bronze awards were handed out, split into four different categories according to the size of the country’s participation. Within each category, each pavilion could receive awards based on their development of the “Oceans and Living Coast” theme, or based on their creative display.

Every Expo is a one-of-a-kind experience. Yet there are things they have in common that make the case for why everyone should go to one.

With Expo 2017 Astana coming up, here are my top reasons to go: