>>52111869Hi Anon, very interesting question. Let's jump right in.
Joe is wearing what is popularly known as a "mask", a garment designed to cover the nose and mouth. This is worn for various reasons:
>to prevent the spread of respiratory disease>to protect against air pollution>for privacy purposes>to feel comfortable leaving the house without makeup or shaving, or with a pimple or cold soreThe mask has long been a popular item in Asia, but has recently seen increased usage further afield. This is largely due to the impact of 2020's coronavirus pandemic. However, masks do not need to be worn strictly for health purposes and can be enjoyed as a fashion item too. Companies such as Japan's Gonoturn produce masks in many pleasing novelty designs - pictured is a Gonoturn / Digimon collaboration novelty mask.
