Stray Kids‘ music label, JYP Entertainment, has officially unveiled their highly anticipated SKZOO Tamagotchi collection, generating a whirlwind of reactions across the global fandom. While excitement runs high for these adorable digital companions featuring the group’s beloved SKZOO characters, international STAYs (Stray Kids fans) have voiced significant concerns about the stark price disparities between domestic and overseas offerings.

What Exactly Is the SKZOO Tamagotchi Collection?

The SKZOO Tamagotchi represents a creative collaboration between JYP Entertainment and Bandai, reimagining the iconic 90s virtual pet phenomenon with Stray Kids’ signature SKZOO characters. These pocket-sized digital pets, housed in the familiar egg-shaped devices that captivated a generation beginning in 1996, now feature the group’s eight distinct animal personas.

Collectors can choose from all eight SKZOO characters: Bang Chan‘s Wolf Chan, Lee Know’s Leebit, Changbin’s DWAEKKI, Hyunjin’s Jiniret, Han’s Han Quokka, Seungmin’s BbokAri, I.N’s PuppyM, and Felix’s FoxI.Ny. Each device promises a unique virtual pet experience themed around the member’s cartoon counterpart.

The devices feature color displays, updated gameplay mechanics, and special animations unique to each character, making them significantly more advanced than the original 90s versions. According to promotional materials, users can feed, play with, and care for their digital SKZOO companion, with special mini-games and hidden features unique to each member’s version.

SKZOO Tamagotchi’s Price Controversy Sparks Fan Debate

The pricing structure has become a flashpoint within the fandom, revealing a significant gap between what Korean and international fans are expected to pay for. For domestic customers, each SKZOO Tamagotchi is priced at 52,000 Korean Won (approximately $35 USD), a figure many fans consider reasonable for licensed collector’s merchandise.

However, international fans face a substantially steeper cost. The same items are listed at $52 USD on the global storefront—representing a nearly 50% markup before additional charges. When factoring in the mandatory $32 shipping fee, international buyers are looking at a total investment of $84 for a single device.

“Absolutely crazy the price gouging happening to international fans since in Korea one costs ₩52000 which equals about $35. But on the English site it’s listed as $52 plus an extra $32 for shipping. So $84 for 1 single tamagotchi cause you can’t even buy more than one at a time to try and save on shipping. This is awful JYP. Do better,” wrote one frustrated fan on JYP Shop‘s Instagram that has since gained significant traction.

How and When to Secure Your SKZOO Tamagotchi

Despite pricing concerns, demand remains high for these limited-edition collectibles. The second pre-order window opened on March 4, giving fans another opportunity to secure their favorite member’s digital companion.

International fans can place orders exclusively through here, while Korean fans have access through here. Both platforms have implemented virtual queuing systems to manage the high traffic volume experienced during the initial pre-order phase.

Stray Kids World Tour Adds Context to Merchandise Release

The SKZOO Tamagotchi release strategically aligns with Stray Kids’ upcoming world tour, which kicks off on March 27 at Estadio Bicentenario la Florida in Santiago, Chile. The eight-member group will continue their global journey with performances scheduled across Brazil, Peru, Mexico, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, and numerous other countries throughout 2025.