Collectibles

A young woman’s hospitalization, allegedly due to excessive “Guzu” (anime/gaming merchandise) at home, has sparked concern within the ACG community. Doctors warn that materials in “Guzu” products can release harmful substances in poorly ventilated areas, posing health risks. The “Guzu economy” is booming, but consumers are urged to practice mindful consumption and ensure ventilation. Some advocate for stricter quality control from manufacturers to ensure product safety amid growing collection habits.

Olympic swimmer Sun Yang was recognized while buying a rare Bandai RX-0 Unicorn Gundam bust on China’s Xianyu marketplace. The collectible, originally worth around $350, now trades for $360-$530. This purchase sparked discussion about collecting trends, contrasting Sun’s choice with the volatile market surrounding Labubu blind boxes, which have experienced a significant price correction after initial hype.

Actress Zhang Yuqi’s live unboxing of LABUBU blind boxes drew over 100,000 viewers, showcasing the collectible’s popularity. Pop Mart’s LABUBU figurines, globally recognized, propelled the company’s growth, even topping the US App Store’s shopping charts. Demand is so high, that a rare prototype sold for nearly $1.5 million, and its value has significantly impacted the company’s stock price, leading to the founder’s ascent as the richest individual in Henan province.

Following the release of a popular collectible series, altercations, including physical confrontations, have erupted due to high demand. Incidents in China, the UK, and Indonesia reveal aggressive behavior at vending machines, with some groups attempting market manipulation. Legal experts are examining the responsibilities of the company, consumers, and scalpers. The company faces liability for unsafe environments, while scalpers may face legal action for anti-competitive practices, and consumers are entitled to legal recourse against fraud or counterfeiting.