The era of secondhand trading is booming, with the resale market rapidly expanding despite economic downturns.
Key factors behind the growth of the secondhand market include the rise of online resale platforms, prolonged inflation, and shifting consumer perceptions about used goods.
A major driving force behind this expansion is the surge in vintage shopping. According to statistics from Capital One, there are over 25,000 resale stores nationwide, with secondhand clothing sales increasing by approximately 11% in 2023 compared to the previous year.
A report by ThredUp, an online platform that partners with major retailers like Lululemon and J.Crew to resell used clothing, reveals that the secondhand clothing market surged from $23 billion in 2018 to $43 billion in 2023.
Once centered around luxury items, the secondhand clothing market has now expanded to include more affordable brands, and the resale of used furniture has also gained momentum.
In the Korean-American community, online platforms such as local group chat rooms, social network services, and media communities are becoming vibrant hubs for secondhand trading.
One of the most active platforms is local group chat rooms. A group chat in the Orange County area has grown to over 1,300 members—nearly double its size from two years ago, when it had 700 members. Dozens of messages are exchanged daily, with secondhand transactions receiving the quickest responses.
High-value items such as brand-new baby carriers for $15, industrial sewing machines for $200, treadmills for $400, and office chairs priced between $5 and $20 disappear quickly due to their affordability.
OfferUp, a competitor to Craigslist, is popular among Korean Americans due to its in-person transaction model.
With secondhand goods gaining popularity, the BGOODSTORE outlet has opened in Fullerton, selling items like open-box products with minor dents or scratches, clearance items, and returns. Most items are unused and come with a one-year warranty.
As the secondhand market grows, inquiries about used items are increasing. Even at general stores in Koreatown, although business isn’t what it used to be, there are frequent calls about secondhand products.
Sam Yoo, the owner of Hallelujah General Store, shared, “Recently, we’ve seen a significant increase in inquiries about selling secondhand items.”
Nearby Los Angeles is home to thriving secondhand furniture stores, offering everything from antique and vintage pieces to branded furniture. Popular stores include Huntington Collection, Pasadena Restore, Habitat for Humanity, Out of the Closet Superstore, Pepe’s Thrift Shop, and Revival Vintage Furniture.
Industry experts recommend bringing a measuring tape when shopping for secondhand furniture.
BY EUNYOUNG LEE, YOUNGNAM KIM [lee.eunyoung6@koreadaily.com]
