Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Bangkok's Blind Box Bonanza: A Collector's Guide to Pop Mart

Hello, friends! If you're like me, you've seen the Pop Mart craze sweep through Singapore. Whether it's the pouty-lipped Crybaby or the fuzzy, mischievous Labubu, these little figures have captured our hearts (and our shelf space). On a recent trip to Bangkok, I discovered that the city isn't just a paradise for food and massages—it's a bona fide mecca for Pop Mart collectors.

The thrill of the hunt here is different. The stores are bigger, the energy is electric, and the prices... well, let's just say they add to the "real value" of your trip. But not all branches are created equal. You need a plan. So, grab your passport and make some room in your carry-on. Let's explore the art of Pop Mart hunting in the City of Angels.

PopMart Icon Siam Bangkok

Why Is Bangkok the New Pop Mart Paradise?

Before we dive into where to go, let's talk about why you should even bother. We have plenty of stores in Singapore, right? True, but Bangkok offers two things a savvy collector can't ignore: value and exclusives.

The Price Advantage

Let's get right to the "Real Value" point. A standard Pop Mart blind box in Singapore typically runs you about S$17 to S$18. In Bangkok, the standard price is ~320 baht. At current exchange rates, that’s just under S$12. When you're buying... well, more than one (we all do), that 30-40% savings on each box adds up fast. It's the perfect excuse to try for that one character you're missing.

The "Holy Grail" Thailand Exclusives

This is the real treasure. Pop Mart creates special, limited-edition figures you can only get in Thailand. These are the ultimate finds, the ones that make your collector friends back home green with envy. Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • Labubu "Good Luck to You" (often in traditional Thai attire)

  • Crybaby "Hello Thailand" (a plush doll with an adorable little elephant)

  • Crybaby "Tuk Tuk" Figure (an Icon Siam exclusive)

  • Mega Space Molly 400% "Mango Sticky Rice" (the ultimate souvenir!)

The Top Pop Mart Branches: Ranked & Reviewed

I visited the city's biggest branches to give you the on-the-ground report. Here’s my ranking based on experience, stock, and "wow" factor.

#1: Icon Siam (The "Must-See" Destination)

Location: 7th Floor, across the river.

Friends, this isn't just a store; it's an event. Billed as the largest Pop Mart store in Southeast Asia, this massive, two-story wonderland is a collector's dream. The moment you step in, you're greeted by giant, museum-worthy statues of your favorite characters.

  • The Vibe: It's an immersive gallery. There are fantastic photo-ops everywhere. It feels less like a retail shop and more like a tribute to the art toy world.

  • The Stock: Because of its size, this branch has the widest selection and is your best bet for scoring those coveted Thailand-exclusive items.

  • The Bonus: This location features Southeast Asia's first Pop Mart Cafe! You can grab a themed coffee and a cute dessert after your hunt.

  • Best For: The dedicated collector, the "do-it-for-the-Gram" shopper, and anyone who wants the full Pop Mart experience.


#2: Central World (The "Flagship" Hub)

Location: 1st Floor (Beacon Zone), in the heart of the Siam shopping district.

This was Thailand's first flagship store, and its location is unbeatable. If you're already shopping at Siam Paragon or Central World, this is your most convenient stop. It’s huge, brightly lit, and always buzzing.

  • The Vibe: Busy, exciting, and very central. Expect crowds, but also the thrill of a major launch.

  • The Stock: As a flagship, it gets all the major new releases and has a deep inventory. However, because it's so popular, the really high-demand items (like Labubu) can sell out fast.

  • The Insider Tip: For hot new releases, this store has been known to use a reservation system. It's smart to check their social media channels ahead of time.

  • Best For: The efficient shopper who wants to pop in, grab their boxes, and continue their day in the Siam area.

#3: Dusit Central Park (The "Boutique" Stop)

Location: Part of the new Dusit Central Park project, near Lumpini Park.

This is the newest kid on the block, part of the stunning new mixed-use development. What it lacks in sheer size, it makes up for in (relative) calm.

  • The Vibe: Modern, sleek, and much less chaotic than the other two. It feels more like a high-end boutique.

  • The Stock: Because it's smaller, the selection isn't as vast as the megastores. But here’s the strategic value: I found popular series (like the Molly "Carb Lover" series) sitting on the shelf here, long after they were sold out at Central World.

  • The Bonus: It’s a great excuse to check out the brand-new Dusit Central Park complex.

  • Best For: The collector on a "speculative" hunt. You might get lucky and find a hidden gem that everyone else missed.

Our Practical Tips for a Successful Hunt

You wouldn't climb a mountain without the right gear, and you shouldn't hunt for Pop Marts without a strategy.

  • Go Early, Especially on Weekends: The early bird gets the Labubu. Stores restock, but the best items are often gone by the afternoon. If you're there for a new launch, be prepared to queue.

  • Follow Pop Mart Thailand: Check their official Facebook or Instagram pages. They post about new arrivals, restocks, and (most importantly) any special queuing or reservation rules for high-demand items.

  • Bring Your "Good Luck" Shake: We all have our little rituals, right? Shaking the box to guess the character is half the fun. Just be gentle!

  • Manage Your Luggage: Remember that "great value"? It can lead to you buying a lot. Keep your luggage weight allowance in mind. A 12-box case adds more weight than you think!

  • Have Fun! At the end of the day, it's about the joy of the find. Don't be so focused on one secret character that you miss the fun of the experience.

It's truly a fantastic time to be a collector in Bangkok. The city has embraced the art toy scene with a passion—and value—that's hard to beat.

Happy hunting!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Pop Mart really cheaper in Bangkok than in Singapore?

Yes, significantly. As of late 2025, a standard blind box costs around 320 baht (under S$12), compared to S$17-S$18 in Singapore. This saving of 30% or more is a major draw for collectors.

What are the "must-buy" Thailand-exclusive Pop Marts?

The top "holy grail" items are the figures celebrating Thai culture. Look for the Labubu "Good Luck to You" in traditional Thai costume, the Mega Space Molly 400% "Mango Sticky Rice" edition, and the Crybaby "Hello Thailand" plush which comes with a small elephant.

Do I need a reservation to enter a Pop Mart in Bangkok?

For a normal visit, no. You can walk in just like any other shop. However, for major new releases (especially for characters like Labubu or special Crybaby series), the flagship stores like Central World may implement a reservation or ticket system to manage the crowds. It's best to check the "Pop Mart Thailand" official social media pages a day or two before your visit if you're hunting for a specific new drop.

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