TOKYO--Hello Kitty turns 50 on Friday. Befitting a pop icon at midlife, the bubble-headed, bow-wearing character's fictional birthday has brought museum exhibits, a theme park spectacle and a ...

Melbourne resident Victoria Kyriakopoulos has built up her collection of Hello Kitty memorabilia over 24 years. The cost of the entire collection is no small figure. "I've lost count, I think ...

From Hello Kitty to Pikachu, the country changed what the world considers adorable. But do these characters represent joy — or rage? By Ligaya Mishan Artwork by Hiroshi YoshiiKimiaki Yaegashi ...