Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend of "kigurumi" or "kig" culture among young people, where individuals transform themselves into life-sized dolls using oversized heads and costumes, creating a unique blend of 2D and 3D aesthetics [3][4][36]. Group 1: Kigurumi Culture - Kigurumi players, known as "kig players," wear custom-made heads and costumes to embody their favorite 2D characters, allowing them to express their fandom in a tangible way [3][4]. - The kigurumi culture is distinct from traditional cosplay, as it focuses on hiding the player's identity and presenting a pure representation of the character [3][4]. - The market for kigurumi products is growing, with prices for custom heads averaging around 3000 RMB, and some high-end options exceeding 6000 RMB [4][9]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The kigurumi market is becoming increasingly competitive, with new entrants like KIGLAND offering lower-priced options, such as a head for 998 RMB, which has raised concerns about quality among consumers [11][37]. - The demand for kigurumi products is expanding, with the number of participants in the culture increasing significantly, as evidenced by the growing number of players at events [37][39]. - The overall size of the broader ACG (Anime, Comic, Game) market in China has grown from 212 million users in 2017 to an expected 503 million by 2024, indicating a shift towards more open expressions of fandom [13]. Group 3: Entrepreneurial Ventures - KIGLAND, founded by a young entrepreneur, has quickly gained traction in the kigurumi market, securing seed funding within a year of its establishment [4][12]. - The founder, who has a diverse background in sports and technology, aims to standardize production processes to meet the growing demand for kigurumi products [17][20]. - The company is investing in technology, including AI models, to streamline the customization process and improve the quality of their products [30][31]. Group 4: Production Challenges - Many kigurumi head manufacturers operate as small workshops, struggling with production capacity and long lead times, which can range from three months to over a year [16]. - The founder of KIGLAND is addressing these challenges by learning 3D modeling and establishing a more efficient production process, which has allowed them to reduce costs significantly [18][22]. - The company has also hired skilled professionals to enhance the quality of wigs and other components, moving away from the traditional reliance on hobbyists [25][26].