Yes, the older thorium reactor was a hot gas cooled design. We have better options today. The Thorium reaction was used in commercial operation in that unit.
I believe we will see new nuclear units being built this decade. There are several in progress.
Location of Projected New Nuclear Power Reactors
http://www.nrc.gov/reactors/new-reactors/col/new-reactor-map.html
New Reactor Licensing Applications
http://www.nrc.gov/reactors/new-reactors/new-licensing-files/new-rx-licensing-app-legend.pdf