Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

Taipei City Government held a press conference on December 22 to announce that the US-born singer Wang Leehom was appointed as the spokesperson of the Taipei Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo.
Following the announcement, Wang performed the Taipei Pavilion’s theme song “Smile at First Sight” for the first time. The new song is a rearranged version of the original hit in 1968 by Teresa Teng. Wang’s remix includes new rap lyrics incorporating the themes of Taipei Pavilion – wireless broadband and the waste recycling.
Wang said he hopes to create a song that listeners living in China and Taiwan could all relate to; by adding modern touches to classical melodies, the new “Smile at First Sight” seeks to transcend generational differences.
The new spokesperson noted that Taipei’s friendliness and vitality are major inspirations for his works. He promised to give his best in promoting the Taipei Pavillion to the international audience.
Mayor Hau Lung-bin remarked that he is highly satisfied with the choice and complimented Wang’s creativity. According to Hau, Wang’s healthy image and great popularity makes him the best candidate for the job.
According to the mayor, construction of the Taipei Pavilion will be completed in March of 2010. Following the month-long trial period in April, the hall will open to the public in May.