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 Chiikawa plushies at home.

Hui is far from alone. Across Hong Kong, people of all ages and genders – from young women to adult men – are increasingly sporting “bag charms”, fluffy keychains and pop-culture accessories in public.