The Hello Kitty Craze in Taiwan is REAL

While the rest of the world is focused on Pokémon Go, Taiwan is going through its own craze – Hello Kitty.

The Hello Kitty theme is conquering the whole territory. Establishments, food, drink, clothing, and just about any other thing you can think of have been marked with this trademark.

Next spring, the main theme for a train station will be Hello Kitty, with Hello Kitty seats, Hello Kitty head covers, and Hello Kitty decorations.

And that’s not all. EVA air in Taiwan, currently the second largest on the island, has painted a plane with the colors and face of this icon. Plus, they include slippers and pillows imprinted with this cat’s face.

The question that may occur to many people is, why?

Well, it is not just about a cartoonish character anymore. According to The Economist, it has become so much a part of the ‘cuteness’ culture of Taiwan as a way to differentiate itself from Japan’s kawaii (cuteness) culture.

By focusing so much on this character, some Taiwanese feel that they are regaining an identity they felt they lost during WWII.

The love for this culture has made appearances in politics just as it has in the everyday life of many Taiwanese citizens.

Photo credits: EQRoy / Shutterstock.com