A Beginner's Guide to K-pop Albums & Photocard Collecting 

Introduction

Source: Cute Frog Creations

When K-pop artists release new music, there is more than what meets the eye for K-pop fans. Many fans choose to display their albums on shelves or store photocards in organized binders. Similar to collecting Pokémon or trading cards, K-pop photocard and album collecting is a popular hobby among fans all over the world.

Want to learn more about K-pop albums and photocards?

What Are K-pop Albums?

K-pop albums are the physical packages that are available to purchase which follow a K-pop artist's recent work or album.

These albums usually include:

Most K-pop albums come in multiple versions such as A/B/C or themed versions. They include the same songs, but differ in visuals, photos, and inclusions.

Source: Fashion Chingu

Each and every album by artists offers a unique take on K-pop albums and each differs from one another. Each K-pop album offers unique packaging and inclusions, making every release different.

What Are Photocards?

Photocards are official 55 x 85 mm (2.16 x 3.35 inches) cards which are found in K-pop albums and official merchandise. There are different types to collect, and when you buy an album, the photocards are usually randomized. If it’s a group, you may receive a card featuring any of the members.

Source: Vice Magazine

Types of Photocards:

Album photocards are the standard cards included with every album purchase. They usually come in sets of 1–3 per album and are guaranteed, though the specific member you receive is random.

Pre-order benefits (POB) are special photocards given when you pre-order an album. These often feature exclusive photos not available elsewhere.

Source:Sara Travels

Lucky draw cards are typically available at music stores, pop-up events, or promotional events in Korea during an artist’s comeback. They are random and usually received through a draw or machine when purchasing albums or participating in events.

Why Are They So Popular?

You may be wondering why these are so popular. A big reason is the excitement and “blind box” feeling when you buy an album. You don’t know which photocard you’ll get. Even though albums often have similar inclusions across versions, photocards vary depending on the concept and album version. For example, an artist may release three versions of an album, each featuring different photobooks, designs, visuals, and exclusive photocards.

Fans also use photocards as a way to strengthen friendships by opening albums together and reacting to their pulls. Pulling a “bias” (favorite member) makes the experience even more exciting. Oftentimes, there are photocard trading events organized by the fans to meet up to buy or trade for photocards they want.

Source: Sara Travels

There are several ways fans interact with photocards. Many organize them in photocard binders with protective sleeves for display and storage. Others trade photocards to collect specific members or complete sets.

For a more practical and aesthetic option, fans often use photocard holders, which are keychain style cases that allow them to carry or display their favorite idols on backpacks, purses, or outfits. Whether at a concert, a cafe, or on your daily commute, photocards have become a way for fans to show their support and connect with their fandom.

Source: Daily Sundial

How to Start Collecting Albums or Photocards

Want to know how you can actually start collecting? The first step will be buying your first album. You will then pull some photocards from the album and it’s up to you if you want to keep them or aim to pull certain members or your bias. You will then want to figure out a way to store them as part of your collection.

Optional: Join Discord servers, X communities, group chats, or find local meetups!

Storing K-pop Albums and Photocards

It is important to note that you will want to store your photocards and albums away from sunlight, as well as storing photocards in PVC free sleeves. These will prevent any damage that may occur and provide protection from bending, dust, and sunlight damage.

Source:Paysable

Where Can You Buy Albums?

Both albums and photocards can be found in many places. If you are looking for brand-new albums, check official retailers such as Weverse Shop, Ktown4U, and Music Plaza. Many of these retailers offer both online and in-person shopping options.

In popular areas in Seoul such as Hongdae, Myeongdong and Gangnam, there are typically shops that sell these items along with other K-pop merchandise. 

Seoul-Based Stores

Hongdae:

Myeongdong:

Gangnam:

Source: MOVV

Also very popular places to shop are underground markets! This includes the Myeongdong underground shopping market.

Online and U.S. Based Stores

Popular U.S. retailers include Target, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart. Fans can also shop online through K-pop-specific stores such as Kpop Nara, Kpop USA, Music Plaza, and SubK Shop.

Another great option is purchasing albums secondhand through platforms such as eBay, Mercari, Facebook Marketplace, or Instagram. Sellers often list gently used albums and photocards on these platforms, sometimes at lower prices than retail.

Prices will vary depending on the retailer and, for online purchases, international shipping costs.

Where Can You Buy Photocards?

Similar to K-pop albums, photocards can be purchased on similar online platforms.

If you are looking to purchase photocards in person, Pocaspot is a great spot located in Hongdae and Myeongdong. One of the perks is that they offer same-day pickup! Whether in Seoul you want to look in person or want to search online, Pocaspot is the place for you, offering various photocards at reasonable prices.

Source: Buzzsetter

Pricing of Albums and Photocards

If you have never purchased a K-pop album or photocard before, you may be wondering what the pricing may look like. Albums typically range between $15-$30 depending on the versions. But, if you were to buy resale online you may find a cheaper price but it may not have all of the inclusions such as photocards included. 

For photocards, these can differ depending on the rarity and if they are common cards or hard to obtain. It also depends on the demand and condition of the cards. For example, some cards may have only been available during a music show promotion in Seoul. This makes them popular for international collectors and fans abroad to access them. You can find cards as low as $2 and as high as several hundred dollars. Realistically speaking, the average is likely between $5-$15.

Conclusion

Whether you are buying your first K-pop album or are already part of the collecting community, K-pop albums and photocards are deeply connected to fandom culture, creating a hobby that brings fans together, builds community, and supports artists. 

At Daebak, we’re passionate about sharing Korean culture with the world. From travel inspiration and cultural guides to curated Korean products delivered straight to your door, we’re here to help you experience the best of Korea wherever you are.

Looking for even more ways to connect with Korean culture? Explore our Daebak Boxes and bring a little piece of Korea home.