What Is Pop Mart? A Complete Guide to the Collectible Craze
If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or exploring quirky lifestyle stores lately, chances are you’ve stumbled upon rows of colorful boxes, adorable characters, and the name Pop Mart. But for many people, the question still lingers: what is Pop Mart?
It’s not just a toy brand. Pop Mart is a blend of art, design, surprise, and community. In this guide, we’ll unpack its story, the reason behind its popularity, and how you can join in on the fun.
Contents
The Basics: What Is Pop Mart?
Pop Mart is a designer toy company from China that has transformed the way people think about collectibles. Founded in 2010 in Beijing, it quickly rose to fame with its unique blind box toys—small vinyl figures hidden inside sealed packaging so you won’t know which one you’re getting until you open it.
Each series revolves around characters created by renowned artists. Some of the most famous include Molly, Dimoo, Skullpanda, and Labubu, each with their own unique backstory, look, and fan following. When you ask “what is Pop Mart?” the real answer is that it’s part collectible, part art piece, and part treasure hunt.
The Blind Box Concept
One of the key things to understand when figuring out what is Pop Mart is its blind box model. Instead of picking exactly which figure you want, you buy a sealed box from a series that contains one of many possible designs.
A typical Pop Mart series features around 12 standard designs plus 1 or 2 rare “secret” editions. The rare ones can be incredibly hard to find, making them highly sought-after among collectors. That element of surprise turns every purchase into an event—you’re not just buying a toy, you’re experiencing the excitement of unboxing a mystery.
Meet the Pop Mart Stars
To fully grasp what is Pop Mart, it helps to know its most beloved characters:
| Character | Description | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| Molly | A blonde, big-eyed girl often dressed in themed costumes | Kenny Wong |
| Dimoo | A dreamy, cloud-haired child with whimsical charm | Ayan Deng |
| Skullpanda | A dark, edgy figure with gothic street style | Skullpanda |
| Labubu | A mischievous creature with a toothy grin | Kasing Lung |
These aren’t mass-produced generic toys—they’re limited runs of artist-designed figures that blend pop culture with contemporary art.
Why People Love Pop Mart
When people ask “what is Pop Mart?” they usually also want to know why it’s so addictive. The answer lies in a mix of psychology and culture.
The Thrill of Surprise
Opening a blind box gives a dopamine rush similar to opening a gift or winning a small prize. It’s fun because you never know exactly what you’re going to get.
The Drive to Collect
Humans love completing sets, and Pop Mart plays into that instinct perfectly. Many collectors keep buying until they’ve completed the full series.
Collectors meet online and in person to trade duplicates, share unboxing videos, and discuss new releases. It’s more than a hobby—it’s a community.
Artistic Appeal
Because each series is designed by real artists, Pop Mart toys feel like miniature works of art rather than just merchandise.
Pop Mart Around the World
Pop Mart began in China but has expanded internationally at a rapid pace. In its home country, it dominates shopping malls and has a strong online presence. Abroad, you’ll find Pop Mart stores and vending machines in cities like Seoul, London, and Los Angeles.
The brand also collaborates with global franchises such as Disney, Harry Potter, and SpongeBob, merging its signature style with popular culture to attract even more fans.
Starting Your Own Collection
If you’re curious about what is Pop Mart and want to start collecting, here are a few tips:
Pick a Series You Love – There’s no need to collect everything. Focus on characters or themes that genuinely appeal to you.
Learn the Rarity Levels – Knowing how rare a figure is can help you decide whether to trade or hold onto it.
Set a Budget – It’s easy to overspend when chasing secret editions. Plan your purchases to avoid regret.
Join Collector Groups – These are great for finding the pieces you want without endlessly buying boxes.
Pop Mart vs. Other Collectibles
You might compare Pop Mart to Funko Pop or Bearbrick, but there are some key differences:
| Feature | Pop Mart | Funko Pop | Bearbrick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blind Box? | Yes | No | Sometimes |
| Artist Focus | High—collabs with artists | Low—mostly licensed IP | Medium |
| Rarity Factor | High | Low/Medium | High |
| Price Range | Affordable to mid-range | Affordable | High-end |
Pop Mart sits in a sweet spot—more exclusive than mass-market toys but still accessible compared to high-end art collectibles.
The Future of Pop Mart
The question “what is Pop Mart?” might soon become as common as “what is Lego?” The company shows no signs of slowing down. More collaborations with movies, fashion brands, and gaming franchises are on the horizon. There’s also talk of expanding into digital collectibles, lifestyle products, and even home décor.
Its winning formula—art, surprise, and collectibility—means it will likely continue captivating both casual fans and serious collectors for years to come.
So, what is Pop Mart? It’s a global phenomenon built around creativity, mystery, and the joy of collecting. Whether you’re opening your very first blind box or hunting down that elusive secret edition, the thrill is the same. Pop Mart is more than just a brand—it’s an experience, a community, and a little bit of magic in a box.
