Hong Kong men turn to plush ‘bag charms’ for self-expression, comfort

Whether he is commuting to work or meeting clients, 31-year-old Hong Kong architect Bryan Hui always has a plush toy keychain of Chiikabu – a beetle-like creature from the popular Japanese anime Chiikawa – hanging from his black backpack. Beyond its cute appearance, Hui is drawn to Chiikabu’s backstory as a conflicted character who practises self-restraint out of loyalty to his friends. “I carry it with me because it makes me feel comforted and healed,” he said, adding that he owns nearly 50...