Sun Yang Addresses Being Recognized After Buying Limited Edition Collectible on Xianyu; Netizens React: “Better Than Buying Labubu”

CNBC AI News: The world of high-end collectibles is once again in the spotlight, this time with an unexpected participant: Olympic swimming champion Sun Yang. Reports have surfaced that the athlete was recently recognized while purchasing a coveted item on China’s popular second-hand marketplace, Xianyu.

Apparently, Yang acquired a rare, highly sought-after piece, prompting him to share the news on social media.

Accompanying his post was an image of the prized possession: a highly-detailed Bandai RX-0 Unicorn Gundam bust, which immediately sparked a wave of admiration from fans. Many noted the athlete’s discerning taste, prompting calls for a live stream to showcase his collection.

The specific model in question, the “Bandai REM RX-0 Unicorn Gundam PB version – Full Automatic Transformation Bust,” originally retailed for a considerable 55,000 Japanese Yen (approximately $350 at the time of release) roughly four years ago. Standing at around 40cm tall, the item currently commands prices between ¥2600 to ¥3800 Yuan ( roughly $360- $530 USD) on Xianyu, a relatively stable price point considering it is a vintage collectible.

This particular purchase sparked a broader conversation about collecting, with commentators noting a distinct difference in Sun’s approach compared to the frenzy surrounding some of the more “hyped” collectibles on the market.

In comparison, the latest generation of Labubu blind boxes, released in April earlier this year, sold for approximately $14 per box, with a set of six boxes priced at approximately $83. However, the secondary market saw these boxes, particularly the elusive “hidden” variants, fetching prices far exceeding the original retail value, with some trading for as high as $1,400.

In the wake of recent significant restocks, market prices for Labubu boxes have reportedly corrected, with current secondary market prices now approximately $90-$110, reflecting the volatile nature of the market.