JLPT N1 Reading Comprehension Lesson 24

Japan has many popular characters, such as Kitty and Pokémon. Among them, Hello Kitty is undoubtedly the most popular. Not only is it highly popular, but it was also appointed as a UNICEF Child Ambassador in the United States in 1983, a Child Goodwill Ambassador for the Japan UNICEF Association in 1994, and has even been named a “Special Friend of Children” by UNICEF. Kitty was born in 1974 as a cat sitting sideways with a red ribbon. The following year, the first character merchandise was released and became a huge hit, but the popularity did not sustain, and the company continued to face difficult business conditions. ① Seizing the opportunity to capture the trend of the times by launching more mature products, Kitty achieved a significant leap forward. Bags and pouches made from pearl pink quilted fabric were well-received by adult women. Furthermore, when famous overseas actresses, models, and musicians began competing to wear Kitty merchandise, the brand's popularity surged even further. It has extended from pendants to clothing fabrics. It then spread from America to Europe, reaching countries that lead in fashion, such as France and Italy. Today, it has become a presence that can be seen anywhere in the world. The product reportedly comes in about 50,000 varieties, is attached to all kinds of items, and is sold in over 70 countries worldwide.