Kuala Lampur, Aug. 26 -- I wonder if Japanese people get tired of the way they're perceived by some, not as people but curiosities, like exotic animals.

Some stereotypes are true - that there is an enduring love and adoption of cuteness in Japan.

Take the success of the recent Chiikawa movie.

While the rest of the world was filling seats for Spider-Man, cinemas were packed for the Chiikawa movie and its adorable 2D animation.

Despite its dark undertones I liked it enough to watch it twice.

We admire Japan for its history, culture, cuisine and speed running its way into developed nation status.

The kawaii or cuteness obsession in Japan is something very uniquely Japanese and I like that they just lean into it, with cute mascots every...