The Surge of Japanese Animation Pop-ups in Seoul
Anime fans have gathered in Seoul as pop-up stores themed around popular animations are opening across the city.
From spaces showcasing official merchandise that is hard to find in Korea to immersive experience-based pop-ups, the variety is appealing.
One such pop-up, Jump Shop in Seoul, is drawing fans with its exclusive goods. Running until February 5 at Yongsan I-Park Mall, it features popular titles like One Piece, Naruto, and Jujutsu Kaisen.
As the official merchandise shop of Japan's renowned manga magazine, Weekly Shonen Jump, Jump Shop has attracted attention for providing fans access to items that are typically only available in Japan.
On my visit on the 28th, the venue was bustling with visitors.
The store is divided into sections for 15 different anime titles, including One Piece, Naruto, Dragon Ball, and Jujutsu Kaisen. Various merchandise like desk mats, stickers, photo cards, fans, and bags are organized by character, making it easy for visitors to find their desired items.
Some popular items sold out quickly, and a limit on the number of purchases per person was implemented to allow more fans to buy their favorites.
One visitor shared, "I think I spent almost 100,000 won. It's a bit disappointing that prices are higher than in Japan, but I consider it a savings on airfare."
Outside the store area, a photo zone was set up, featuring character acrylic displays and original illustrations that attracted both visitors and passersby. A mini Jump Shop was also available to reduce crowding.
Visitors enjoyed the pop-up in their own ways. At the entrance, random character postcards were given out, leading to spontaneous exchanges among fans trying to get their favorite characters.
Some attendees came in cosplay, like Hong Eun-ji, who dressed as Gintoki from the anime Gintama. She expressed her excitement about the pop-up being held in Seoul after visiting the Japan Jump Shop multiple times.
Experience-based pop-ups are also gaining popularity, with a Digimon Adventure-themed café recently opening. In this café, anyone can become one of the 'chosen children' from the series.
The café's tables are decorated according to characters, and the space is filled with posters and music from the Digimon Adventure OST, creating an immersive experience.
The menu reflects the Digimon universe, with playful names inspired by the series. The café has been so popular that reservations fill up quickly even on weekdays.
However, some fans expressed disappointment, noting that the offerings were similar to a previous exhibition and lacked variety in character representation.
Another experience-based pop-up, a Detective Conan escape room, is also running until the 8th at Hongdae SKBD. Participants take on the role of detectives, solving mysteries in a mansion tied to the movie "Detective Conan: The Pentagram of One Million Dollars." The engaging story and realistic performances enhance the immersive experience.
Overall, these pop-ups are creating a vibrant atmosphere for anime fans in Seoul.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/differance-dolly/224168147382
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