卖价过万的「大头娃娃」，成了「痛系」年轻人的新型奢侈品

Core Viewpoint - The article explores the emerging trend of "kigurumi" or "kig" culture among young people, highlighting its growth as a niche market within the broader ACG (Anime, Comic, Game) culture in China, and the entrepreneurial opportunities it presents in the customization of character head shells [5][14][35]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The kigurumi culture allows individuals to transform into 2.5D characters, providing a lower barrier to entry compared to traditional cosplay, as players do not need to show their real faces or have perfect body types [6][7]. - The average price for a kig head shell is around 3,000 yuan, with some high-end products reaching up to 10,000 yuan, indicating a lucrative market despite its niche status [7][11]. - The number of pan-2D users in China has grown from 212 million in 2017 to an expected 503 million by 2024, reflecting a significant expansion in the ACG market [14]. Group 2: Company Insights - KIGLAND, a kig head shell customization service, has gained attention by offering a popular head shell at a promotional price of 998 yuan, which has raised skepticism about quality among potential customers [9][13]. - The founder, Li Mingwei, has a diverse background and has been involved in the ACG community for years, which has informed his approach to the business [14][19]. - The company aims to standardize production processes to meet the growing demand, moving away from the small workshop model that currently dominates the industry [22][23]. Group 3: Technological Innovations - Li Mingwei is developing an AI model to assist in 3D modeling and production, aiming to streamline the customization process and improve efficiency [31]. - The company has implemented innovative cost-cutting measures, such as hiring professional hairstylists to produce wigs, which traditionally required significant manual labor [27]. - The goal is to create a "super factory" for kigurumi products, capable of handling larger volumes while maintaining quality [18][28]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - The kigurumi market is witnessing an influx of new players offering lower-priced options, which is changing the competitive landscape and making the products more accessible to a broader audience [35]. - The demand for kigurumi products is driven by a desire for self-expression and social identity among young people, with many players seeking to showcase their love for virtual characters [14][34]. - The article notes a growing presence of kigurumi at events, indicating a rising popularity and acceptance of this culture within the broader ACG community [36][38].