The character is beloved by millions worldwide and has been the face of its parent company, Sanrio, for half a century.

The monarch was feting a figure more recognisable than any billionaire or emissary: Hello Kitty, who turns 50 this year. The ...

Hello Kitty, the cute, enigmatic character that adorns everything from handbags to rice cookers, turns 50 on Friday -- and is still making millions for her Japanese creators. Helen, founder of the ...