"To what extent do the social consequences of cuteness culture in Eastern and Western societies diverge, while still reinforcing gender-based power structures?" Developed as a degree thesis project, this research investigates global perceptions of Kawaii culture through an original blind box series featuring six characters representing different themes of cuteness—from escapism to self-expression. While Japan has embraced Kawaii since the 1970s as a form of empowerment and cultural identity, Western societies often dismissed it as childish or commercial until recent decades. The series reveals how these divergent views reflect deeper gender and power dynamics, with Japan celebrating Kawaii’s emotional resonance and the West grappling with stereotypes of immaturity. As global exchange grows, the project highlights Kawaii’s evolving role in bridging cultural divides while challenging gendered assumptions. This dual approach of theoretical analysis and practical design application offers fresh insights into cuteness as both aesthetic phenomenon and social commentary.