SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Showcase to Make International Debut at the National Museum of Singapore

The SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Showcase will make its international debut at the National Museum of Singapore. The presentation is a collaboration between POP MART, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and the National Museum. It introduces visitors to the artistic vision behind SKULLPANDA while strengthening Singapore’s position as a cultural destination.

Open from 12 December 2025 to 22 February 2026, the showcase follows its first run at the Gate M West Bund Dream Center in Shanghai. This second edition brings the experience to a wider audience and marks the first SKULLPANDA showcase in Singapore.

A New Collaboration to Explore Collectible Culture

The showcase is the first tripartite partnership between POP MART, STB and the National Museum. It highlights the growing connection between collectible design, contemporary art and museum programming. This collaboration aims to help visitors understand the craft and narratives that shape SKULLPANDA and the wider collectible scene.

A feature unique to the Singapore run is an installation inspired by the local bird singing pastime. This section adds cultural context and introduces visitors to a traditional practice that continues to hold meaning today.

Artistry Behind SKULLPANDA

Created in 2018 by Chinese artist Xiong Miao, SKULLPANDA began as a reflection of the artist’s own questions and uncertainties. Drawing from Xiong Miao’s background in game concept design, the showcase expands the character into a multi-sensory experience.

Through six themes — Emotion, Fortune, Rules, Exploration, Life and Direction — visitors are encouraged to consider the choices and dilemmas that shape everyday life. The presentation uses large installations, sculptural pieces, interactive displays and symbolic objects such as locks, keys and door frames to spark reflection.

POP MART Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Justin Moon shared that the showcase supports artists who explore deeper ideas through collectible design. Bringing SKULLPANDA to Singapore allows more people to understand the character’s creative intent.

Connecting Contemporary Culture and Museum Audiences

The National Museum continues its effort to explore modern cultural movements after the success of Play:Date – Unlocking Cabinets of Play in 2024. The SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Showcase builds on that foundation by examining how collectible culture has evolved and how it resonates with different communities.

National Museum Director Chung May Khuen noted that this presentation is part of the museum’s work to engage diverse audiences and provide new pathways into Singapore’s contemporary history through accessible cultural touchpoints.

The Singapore-exclusive installation, inspired by bird singing traditions, introduces international visitors to a part of local heritage that may be less familiar. It draws parallels between community pastimes and the shared interest found within collectible culture.

Strengthening Singapore’s Cultural Landscape

According to STB Assistant Chief Executive (Marketing Group) Kenneth Lim, the partnership reflects Singapore’s goal of offering experiences where creativity, heritage and contemporary culture intersect. These collaborations support the Tourism 2040 vision and appeal to younger travellers seeking meaningful cultural encounters.

Visitor Information

The SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Showcase runs from 12 December 2025 to 22 February 2026.

• Early All Access Tickets: 12–16 December 2025
• Standard All Access Tickets: Available from 1 December 2025
• Both ticket types can be purchased online
• Admission will be by timed entry
• The first 4,500 visitors will receive a Singapore-exclusive SKULLPANDA gift
• Exclusive merchandise will be limited to one piece per ticket holder after completing the showcase visit
• A special POP MART pop-up store will be located at the museum’s Longer Concourse and will be open to all visitors

More information and updates will be shared on the official website and the National Museum’s social media channels.