Funko Pop! figures have become a staple in the world of pop culture and collectibles, but when did these adorable vinyl figures first hit the market? Let's take a closer look at the history of Funko Pop! and how they became one of the most popular collectibles in the world.

Funko, the company behind Funko Pop!, was founded in 1998 by Mike Becker in Snohomish, Washington. At the time, the company focused primarily on bobblehead figures of popular characters from movies and television shows. It wasn't until 2010 that Funko began producing the now-iconic Pop! figures that we all know and love.

The first Pop! figures were a line of DC Comics characters, including Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. These figures featured a distinctive look with oversized heads and cute, chibi-style bodies. The initial response was mixed, but Funko persisted and continued to produce more figures in the line.

Over time, Funko expanded their Pop! line to include figures from other popular franchises, such as Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney. They also began producing figures of celebrities, musicians, and even politicians. Today, Funko Pop! figures can be found representing just about every aspect of pop culture, from movies and TV shows to video games and sports.

One of the reasons for the incredible popularity of Funko Pop! figures is their affordability and accessibility. With most figures priced at around $10-15, they are relatively inexpensive compared to other collectibles. They are also widely available, sold in major retail stores as well as online retailers like Amazon and the Funko website.

Funko Pop! figures have become much more than just toys for kids. They are now highly sought-after collectibles for fans of all ages and backgrounds. With their cute, stylized designs and huge variety of characters, there is a Funko Pop! figure for just about everyone.

In conclusion, Funko Pop! figures first hit the market in 2010 and have since become a worldwide phenomenon. With their affordable prices, wide availability, and huge variety of characters, it's no wonder that they have become one of the most popular collectibles in the world.