Hirono
The Silent Resurgence of the Inner Child
Contents
Overview
Hirono is a deeply introspective and narrative-driven designer toy character created by Chinese contemporary artist Lang and produced by POP MART. Launched in 2021, Hirono is depicted as a small boy with short tousled hair, a blank yet evocative expression, and a minimalist body often placed in symbolic, surreal scenarios. Each figure captures fleeting human emotions—love, joy, sadness, fear, kindness, cowardice, loneliness, resilience, and growth—freezing subtle life fluctuations in time. Through Hirono, Lang explores the "changeable nature of the Self," blending personal vulnerability with universal feelings beyond social masks. Unlike cute or fashion-focused IPs, Hirono's quiet, melancholic tone and symbolic props make it one of POP MART's most artistic and emotionally resonant lines. In 2026, Hirono continues to thrive with new drops and fashion crossovers, positioned as "wearable stories" of vulnerability and individuality.
Creator & Brand
Creator: Lang
Lang (Instagram @langswork) is a Beijing-based multi-media artist (painting, sculpture, toys, animation) who served as POP MART's early Art Director and co-founder influence. His work centers on the fluid concept of "Self," drawing from literature, films, music, and personal emotions to highlight life's ups/downs and hidden truths. Hirono embodies Lang's philosophy: a vessel for raw, genuine feelings that reveal true character. Lang actively engages fans through signings and events worldwide.
- •Beijing-based multi-media artist
- •Former POP MART Art Director
- •Focuses on fluid concept of "Self"
- •Engages fans via global signings
Brand: POP MART
POP MART incubated Hirono via its internal PDC design team, turning it into a flagship artistic IP. The blind box format structures emotional "chapters," with global expansion boosting reach. In 2026, Hirono sees fashion-first activations (e.g., Brick Lane London store) and continued series drops, contributing to POP MART's emotional capitalism narrative—monetizing resonance amid economic shifts.
- •Incubated via internal PDC team
- •Global expansion (530+ stores)
- •Fashion-first activations (London Brick Lane)
Major Series & Editions
Blind Box Series
Format
- 9–12 regular designs
- 1 secret (chase) figure
- Occasional ultra-rares
- Symbolic narratives
Themes
- The Other One Series
- Little Mischief Series (2022)
- City of Mercy
- Reshape Series (Nov 2023)
- Shelter Series
- Mime Series
- Echo Series
- Road Journal Series (2025–2026)
Large-Scale Editions
Large-scale figures emphasize sculptural quality. Collaborations include Hirono x Le Petit Prince, Hirono x CLOT, and Hirono x Vans (2025–2026).
Market Impact
Hirono carves a niche for "emotional capitalism" in blind boxes—prioritizing introspection over cheer. It appeals to adult collectors, especially male and art-oriented audiences, and those valuing narrative symbolism. In 2026, it resonates strongly with fans seeking relatability and depth, differentiating itself from the "cute economy."
Global Reach
Why It's Successful
- ✓Profound emotional storytelling
- ✓Minimalist yet evocative design
- ✓Symbolic depth
- ✓Differentiation from "cute economy"
- ✓Fashion/art crossover momentum
Collecting Guide
Retail Pricing
Single Blind Box
$10 – $20 USD
Full Set (12)
$120 – $250 USD
Secondary Market
Secrets from conceptual series resell 3–10× retail; strong demand for narrative fans. Rare event exclusives and signed figures command premium prices.
Collecting Strategy
Where to Buy
Official Channels
- POP MART Global Stores (incl. London Brick Lane)
- POP MART Website & App
- TikTok Shop & Authorized Retailers
Secondary Platforms
- StockX
- eBay
- Mercari Japan
- Reddit r/PopMartCollectors
Related Designer Toys
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