From limited-edition figurines to exclusive celebrity merchandise, the world of collectibles is thriving. For many, collecting is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to express passion, build connections, and find joy in owning a piece of their favorite franchise or artist. While some enthusiasts spend modest amounts, others dedicate significant portions of their income to chasing rare finds and completing their collections.

The Rise of Blind Box Mania
Blind boxes, where buyers receive a random item from a themed collection, have become a cultural phenomenon. In China, the market for blind boxes was valued at nearly 9.7 billion yuan (S$1.8 billion) in 2021, surpassing assembled toys, according to German data firm Statista. This trend has since gained traction worldwide, including in Singapore.

Strolling through Singapore’s streets, it’s easy to spot young collectors flaunting small figurines on their phones, bags, or desks. These trinkets, often acquired through blind boxes, add an element of surprise and excitement to the collecting experience.

For 20-year-old Amber Ng, the thrill of discovering new figurines led her to dive into the world of Smiskis, Sonny Angels, and Pop Mart’s Crybaby and Twinkle Twinkle series. Initially skeptical, Amber found herself drawn to their quirky designs. Since early 2024, she has spent over $100 on these collectibles, setting aside $150 monthly from her internship stipend for her growing collection.

While some collectors prefer the element of surprise, others take a more strategic approach. 22-year-old medical lab technician Joey Teo buys opened blind boxes through online marketplaces to ensure she gets the figurines she desires. Similarly, nursing student Jason Wong carefully inspects weight and packaging to increase his chances of snagging rare “secret” figurines. Despite his research, his success rate remains around 70 percent, leading him to resell unwanted pieces at cost price.

The Price of Fandom
Beyond toys and figurines, music fans are also fueling the collectibles market. In South Korea, physical album sales have tripled over three years, exceeding 119 million in 2023, according to Circle Chart. Yet, for many K-pop enthusiasts, the appeal isn’t in the CDs themselves—it’s the exclusive photocards included in each album. Fans frequently purchase multiple copies to obtain rare or specific images of their favorite idols.

Calista Kok, a 20-year-old Singapore Institute of Management student, is an avid collector of K-pop memorabilia. As a devoted fan of boy bands NCT and Zerobaseone, she invests up to $400 on albums, photocards, and merchandise each time a new release drops. To sustain her hobby, she works part-time during school breaks, earning up to $1,600 a month.

For Taylor Swift fan Kieran Han, his dedication extends beyond albums and merchandise. The 19-year-old Nanyang Polytechnic student attended Swift’s ‘The Eras Tour’ in Singapore and even traveled to London for another show, spending $800 on a resale ticket. Despite the hefty price tag, he has no regrets, calling the experience "magical and worth every dollar." His devotion also extends to collecting Swift’s vinyl records, each costing about $72.

A Balancing Act
While collecting offers joy and a sense of belonging, some enthusiasts acknowledge the financial strain. Jason Wong, who once allocated $200 per month to blind boxes, has since limited his purchases to avoid overspending. He recalls a trip to Thailand where he had to budget carefully due to prior blind box purchases, slightly dampening his vacation experience.

Similarly, Calista Kok has become more selective with her photocard collection, opting to purchase only the ones she truly loves rather than completing full sets.

However, not all fans feel the need to splurge excessively. 21-year-old Temasek Polytechnic student Nur Insyirah supports her favorite K-pop groups by attending concerts and streaming their albums rather than buying every available piece of merchandise. "There are many ways to show support without breaking the bank," she says.

The Future of Collecting
As brands continue to tap into consumer passion with exclusive drops, limited-edition items, and interactive experiences, the collectibles industry shows no signs of slowing down. For many fans, the appeal isn’t just in the item itself—it’s in the thrill of the hunt, the joy of ownership, and the community built around shared interests.

Whether it's through blind boxes, albums, or concert experiences, fans will always find ways to celebrate what they love—one collectible at a time.