Asian Games 2018: List of all Asian Games Mascots

Bangkok 1998

Chai-Yo, the Thai Elephant who was the mascot of the 1998 Asian Games

For the first time in the history of the games, Bangkok won a bidding war for the right to host the 1998 Asian Games. The Thai capital beat off competition from Taipei and Jakarta to win the hosting rights for the games.

Chai-Yo, the Thai Elephant was chosen to be the mascot of the 1998 Games. The origins of the name Chai-Yo are found in a chant which is used by a group to show their unity and solidarity.

Busan 2002

Duria, the Seagull was the mascot when the games returned to Korea in 2002

2002 was a big year for South Korea. Apart from hosting the Asian Games, South Korea was also the co-host of the FIFA World Cup. To provide a distinct image for the Asian Games, Duria the seagull was chosen as the mascot.

The name 'Duria' was an amalgamation of the words durative and Asia, which when translated to Korean read 'You and Me together'. The message was to promote unity between the Asian countries via this mascot.