On June 29, 2025, chess legend Judit Polgar gave a 16-board simultaneous exhibition at the Hungarian Pavilion of the Osaka World Expo. The event was jointly organized by the Japan Chess Federation and the Judit Polgar Chess Foundation, offering the Japanese audience a unique opportunity to experience her distinctive playing style and strategic insight up close.
Following the simul, Judit was a special guest at the Women’s Pavilion, where she participated in a public conversation in front of a full house, consisting mainly of Japanese visitors. She spoke about her life story, career, and her dedication to education. Education, as one of the core themes of the pavilion, served as a fitting backdrop to explore how chess can be a powerful tool for learning and personal development.
Photo credit: EXPO 2025 Hungary
This inspiring day further highlighted how chess can serve as a cultural bridge, and demonstrated the strong global relevance of combining sport, education, and value-driven initiatives.
