A Study on the Mechanisms of the Emergence and Spread of the‘Blind Box Craze’ from the Perspective of Quantum Propagation Theory—Taking Pop Mart as a Case Study

Authors

  • Wenhua Chen
  • Xingyan Liu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37420/j.adr.2026.006

Keywords:

quantum propagation;blind boxes;Pop Mart;user-generated content;affective consumption;designer toys

Abstract

Utilizing the conceptual framework of observational information collapse,the uncertainty principle,and the multidimensional universe within quantum propagation theory,this study conducts a data-driven textual analysis of user-generated content(UGC)on Xiaohongshu concerning the Pop Mart LABUBU series,exploring the underlying drivers of young people’s sustained engagement in blind box consumption.The findings suggest that within a quantized information field,blind box consumption exhibits distinct characteristics of quasi-controllability,quasi-reality,and quasi-concealment,which effectively satisfy young people’s psychological needs for a sense of control,security,and social identity.Through behaviors of purchasing,customizing,and“flexing”(displaying)designer toys,users obtain continuous positive affective feedback,sustain long-term consumption engagement,and ultimately catalyze the prevalent“blind box craze”phenomenon.

Author Biographies

Wenhua Chen

School of Film and Television Industry,Guangdong University of Finance and Economics,Foshan,Guangdong,China

Xingyan Liu

Faculty of Business and Economics,University of Melbourne,Melbourne,Australia

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Published

2026-06-04

How to Cite

Chen, W., & Liu, X. (2026). A Study on the Mechanisms of the Emergence and Spread of the‘Blind Box Craze’ from the Perspective of Quantum Propagation Theory—Taking Pop Mart as a Case Study. Art & Design Research, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.37420/j.adr.2026.006

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Articles (2026)

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