Harnessing Cuteness: A Surprising Force in Asia's Political Resistance

(By Yii-Jan Lin, Yale University) In Antalya, Turkey, on March 27, 2025, a Pikachu impersonator fled police while protesting Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's arrest. The internet buzzed with AI-generated cute memes. Cuteness transcends virality, serving as a soft power that highlights injustices. Explore how Asian cultures embrace this charm through art and expression.