Evolved from :-). In the Russian keyboard layout, one has to press Shift+6 to type a colon, which is deemed inconvenient, particularly in instant messaging, as it requires both hands. As a result the smiley's eyes vanished over time.
Usage of multiple brackets is used to emphasize the laughter or funiness, but it may also suggest an ironic or sarcastc tone.
Multiple brackets with zeroes - )0 or (9 - are used similarly to !1, implying that shift key was released, expressing an emphasis.
")))" is not to be confused with ((( ))), known as a far-right symbol directed against Jewish people.