Core Viewpoint - The recent court ruling in Shanghai highlights the necessity for emerging industries, such as the figurine market, to adhere to regulations protecting minors from inappropriate content, emphasizing that artistic creation or subcultures cannot be used as excuses to bypass these protections [1][3]. Group 1: Case Overview - The Shanghai Baoshan District Court convicted 12 individuals involved in the production and sale of pornographic figurines, with sentences ranging from four years and nine months to probation [2][5]. - The controversial figurine in question depicted a female character in a suggestive pose, which was deemed pornographic based on police assessments and testimonies from underage buyers who felt embarrassed to display it [2][6][7]. - This case is reportedly the first of its kind in China where figurines were classified as pornographic material, indicating a significant legal precedent [2][4]. Group 2: Industry Context - The figurine industry, originating from Japan, has seen a rise in popularity due to the growing "two-dimensional" culture, but some businesses have blurred the lines between this culture and soft pornography [4][18]. - As of March 2025, Dongguan, known as the "Toy Capital of China," houses over 4,000 toy manufacturers and is responsible for a significant portion of the global anime derivative products [4][5]. - Following media exposure of the pornographic figurine industry, law enforcement in various regions, including Dongguan, has intensified investigations, leading to the shutdown of several businesses involved in the production and sale of such items [4][5]. Group 3: Legal Implications - Legal experts argue that the ruling serves as a necessary supplement to existing administrative regulations, addressing gaps in oversight within the figurine industry [15][16]. - The court's decision reflects a modern shift in criminal policy, balancing strict penalties for main offenders while allowing leniency for minor participants based on their roles in the crime [15][19]. - The ruling sends a clear message that cultural creativity must not violate public morals, reinforcing the importance of protecting minors from potentially harmful content [15][19]. Group 4: Impact on Minors - A significant portion of the pornographic figurines has been found to be marketed towards minors, raising concerns about their exposure to inappropriate material [18][19]. - Experts warn that the presence of "soft pornography" in figurines can negatively influence minors' understanding of sexuality, potentially leading to harmful consequences [18][19]. - The ruling is seen as a critical step in enhancing protections for minors in the digital age, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations in the figurine industry [19].