Remember the excitement of opening a mystery gift as a child, the thrill of not knowing what’s inside until the wrapping paper was torn away? That feeling has made a grand comeback in the form of blind box collectibles, a trend that’s taking the toy industry by storm. At the forefront of this movement is Pop Mart, a Chinese company that’s changing how we think about toys.
What Are Blind Box Collectibles?
Blind boxes are essentially surprise packages. When you purchase one, you’re buying a beautifully designed box that contains a collectible toy—but the exact toy inside is a mystery until you open it. Each series has a set of characters (usually 9-12 characters per set), and some boxes contain rare “hidden” figures that are highly sought after by collectors.
The Allure of the Unknown
So why are blind boxes so popular?
- Thrill of Mystery: The suspense of unwrapping an unknown toy taps into our innate curiosity, making each purchase an exciting experience.
- Psychological Reward: The chance of finding a rare or favorite figure triggers a dopamine rush, enhancing the unboxing thrill.
- Collecting Instinct: Completing a set appeals to our natural desire to collect, adding a sense of achievement with each new addition.
- Community Engagement: Sharing unboxing experiences on social media fosters a vibrant community of enthusiasts.
- Accessible Fun: Affordable pricing makes it easy for a wide audience to join in.
Pop Mart: The Game Changer
Founded in Beijing in 2010 by Wang Ning, Pop Mart began as a small retail store selling various pop culture items. Fast forward to today, and it has become a global sensation in the world of blind box collectibles.
Pop Mart, the rapidly expanding collectible toy sensation, has established over 250 physical stores and more than 1,600 “Roboshops”—its signature vending machines—across the globe. With products available in 23 countries and regions, the company has solidified its global presence in the industry.
Central to Pop Mart’s appeal is its collaboration with artists to create unique and popular characters like Molly, Pucky, and Hirono, captivating the hearts of collectors worldwide. Driven by the mission “To Light up Passion and Bring Joy,” Pop Mart resonates deeply with fans, turning a simple goal into a powerful connection.
Artistic Collaborations
Central to Pop Mart’s success is its dynamic collaboration with a variety of talented artists, each bringing their unique creativity to the collectible toy scene. Kenny Wong from Hong Kong introduced Molly, a figurine with emerald eyes and a charmingly pouty expression. Inspired by a young child, Molly’s stubborn yet adorable personality and diverse outfits have won over countless fans, making her one of Pop Mart’s most iconic characters.
Another standout is SKULLPANDA, a Chinese artist who created a namesake character known for its edgy designs and distinctive makeup. Since joining Pop Mart in 2020, SKULLPANDA’s series have become immensely popular, with the “Ancient Castle” blind box series selling 60,000 pieces in just one second upon release.
Belgian-based artist Kasing Lung brought to life The Monsters, a collection of whimsical creatures like Labubu, a mischievous yet kind-hearted character with pointed ears and serrated teeth. His fairy-tale-inspired designs have resonated with both children and adults, adding a touch of Nordic fantasy to Pop Mart’s lineup.
From China, Ayan created Dimoo, a shy boy who embarks on brave adventures in his dreams. Accompanied by Baby Cloud, Dimoo explores new worlds, embodying the blend of vulnerability and courage that appeals to many collectors seeking depth in their collectibles.
Lastly, Hong Kong artist Pucky offers a journey into the spiritual and natural worlds with her self-named brand. Drawing inspiration from mythology and dreams, Pucky’s creations provide a whimsical escape, reflecting both sensitivity and a touch of darkness that intrigues collectors.
