On June 2nd, Pop Mart International Group Limited (ASX: PMRTY) announced the upcoming launch of a new product line featuring a collaboration between its Hirono Xiao Ye character and celebrity Dou Jingtong, with the release scheduled for June 12th.
The announcement, however, has elicited sharply divided reactions among the fan community. Some supporters have expressed enthusiasm, with comments such as "I like Xiao Ye, and I also like Dou Jingtong" and "a delightful surprise for fans of both."
Conversely, a significant number of fans on social media platforms have voiced their dissatisfaction. Criticisms include "I don't like linking it with a real person" and "why does the IP have to be linked to a real person? Don't use Xiao Ye as a substitute for anyone." Further skepticism was directed at the product's concept, with one fan questioning, "Isn't Xiao Ye's character setting male? This just feels very strange."