Pop Mart & Streetwear Culture

Pop Mart: The story of a revolution in the world of collectibles

Since its creation in 2010, Pop Mart has transformed the designer toy market into a global cultural phenomenon. The brand, founded by Wang Ning, has successfully established a new model based on surprise and emotion.

From humble beginnings to a global toy design empire

Wang Ning opened the first Pop Mart store in 2010 in the Chaoyang district , inspired by trendy Hong Kong concepts. A strategic turning point came a few years later with the adoption of the blind box system. In 2016, the meeting with Kenny Wong marked a decisive milestone: it led to the creation of Molly, Pop Mart's first intellectual property through the Zodiac series. This collaboration launched a winning model based on three pillars:

• The creation of exclusive IPs in collaboration with renowned artists
• The blind box system that transforms every purchase into a fun experience
• A global distribution strategy focused on communities

Molly's meteoric rise paved the way for other licenses. Pop Mart quickly became a benchmark in toy design, attracting collectors and urban culture enthusiasts. The year 2024 marked the brand's definitive international breakthrough.

The winning strategy: scarcity, surprise, and gamification

The blind box concept relies on a powerful psychological mechanism: the element of surprise combined with scarcity. Each box contains a figurine whose identity remains unknown until it is opened. This system is reminiscent of the mechanics of games of chance, creating a mild addiction among collectors. The secret editions, called Secret , amplify this effect with a 1 in 144 probability of obtaining one.

To limit duplicates, Pop Mart offers complete displays containing 12 figures . This formula encourages group buying while guaranteeing a certain level of diversity. The brand collaborates with artists like Kasing Lung , creator of Labubu, to regularly refresh its product lines. This model generates several benefits:

• A strong emotional connection with collectors
• A high perceived value due to scarcity
• A playful dimension that transforms shopping into a ritual
• A natural compatibility with streetwear codes

Labubu: the Pop Mart icon who conquered streetwear

Among the many Pop Mart licenses, Labubu stands out as the current star. This mysterious creature perfectly embodies the fusion of art toys and trainers culture, appealing to an audience far beyond just collectors.

Who is Labubu and why does everyone want one?

Kasing Lung designed Labubu for The Monsters universe. This hybrid creature blends cute aesthetics with an edgy touch, a balance that appeals to streetwear enthusiasts. Its expressive design oscillates between sweetness and mischief, with endless variations depending on the series. The plush vinyl and vinyl face formats offer different textures, expanding the collection possibilities.

Themed series are multiplying: Forest Night explores the forest world, Sweet Monster plays on contrasts, Fairy Tale revisits fairy tales, Have a Seat features seating, Tasty Macarons celebrates the world of gourmet treats, Big Into Energy offers pastel colors, and the Coca-Cola collaboration blends nostalgia and pop culture. Each series includes chase figurines , ultra-rare models that fuel collectors' desires. This system of scarcity is reminiscent of limited-edition trainers , creating natural connections between the two communities. Discoverthe streetwear universe on Limited Resell

Collectibles and streetwear: a cultural convergence

The integration of art toys into streetwear culture is not accidental. It responds to common logics that structure these two worlds: rarity, exclusivity, community identity and symbolic value.

From trainer to toys: the same logic of collecting and hype.

Blind box drops function exactly like limited-edition trainers releases. Collectors scrutinize announcements, eagerly await releases, and participate in raffles. On TikTok and Instagram , Labubu's unboxings generate as much engagement as exclusive pair reveals. The culture of scarcity unites these two practices.

• Chase of rare patterns with limited probabilities
• Active communities organizing exchanges and resales
• High speculative value for coveted coins
• Display rituals and meticulous presentation

Specialized forums and dedicated groups replicate the dynamics observed in the trainer game. Collectors share their finds, negotiate trades to complete their displays, and follow secondary market trends. This social dimension reinforces a sense of belonging to a shared cultural community.✅ Check out our delivery options