Girl Hospitalized After Anime Merchandise Exposure: Potential Toxicity Suspected

CNBC AI News, July 20th – A recent report has sparked online concern after a young woman was hospitalized, allegedly due to an overabundance of “Guzu” – a popular type of merchandise within the anime and gaming subculture – stored in her home.

The incident, shared on social media, detailed the user’s late-night ambulance ride, attributing the medical emergency to the sheer volume of “Guzu” collected. This has resonated deeply with the “ACG” (Animation, Comic, and Games) community, prompting many to consider the potential downsides of their collecting habits.

This incident casts an unexpected shadow on what is usually perceived as harmless fandom.

“Guzu,” derived from the English word “Goods,” encompasses a wide array of derivative products based on intellectual property from manga, anime, and video games. These items can include badges, cards, figurines, keychains, and other collectibles.

The “Guzu Economy” has emerged as a significant growth driver in the consumer market. Across China, major commercial districts are experiencing an anime-inspired renaissance, fueled by young consumers enthusiastically embracing the “eating Guzu” lifestyle, revitalizing older shopping centers.

Medical professionals are now advising caution. They point out that in hot, humid conditions, materials like adhesives and plastic packaging used in these products can release potentially harmful substances. Long-term accumulation of these items in poorly ventilated spaces could pose health risks. They urge consumers to practice mindful consumption and ensure adequate ventilation in their living spaces.

Some members of the Guzu community, while acknowledging these concerns, are calling on manufacturers to adhere to stringent quality control standards. “If we can’t control our love for collecting, manufacturers must ensure product safety. Our health is paramount,” one user commented.

The individual price of “Guzu” items can be surprisingly high. Domestically produced “Guzu” typically ranges from 10 to 30 yuan. Imported items, particularly those from Japan, can cost between 30 and 60 yuan, with some rare or highly sought-after pieces fetching hundreds of yuan.