"Instead of Smartphones" Used Price Reaches 900,000 Won... Gen Z Revives Explosive Popularity of This Item

Riding the wave of the "digital detox" trend, which aims to reduce smartphone dependency, the discontinued Apple iPod is regaining popularity in the secondhand market.

According to a recent report from the Associated Press, used iPod transactions are rapidly increasing worldwide, four years after Apple stopped producing its iconic music player.

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While new iPods are no longer available for purchase, they continue to be traded in the secondhand market. With approximately 450 million units sold over about 20 years, a substantial number of iPods are believed to be circulating as used devices. It has also been reported that many devices, once stored away and unused, are now being reintroduced into the market as secondhand items.

In fact, thousands of used iPods are listed on eBay, the global e-commerce platform. On Back Market, a global refurbished electronics platform, iPod sales increased by 48% last year compared to the previous year.

This trend is analyzed as a reflection of rising demand among younger generations who want to listen to music without relying on algorithms. Ben Wood, chief analyst at market research firm CCS Insight, explained, "There is a growing tendency, especially among younger users, to reduce distractions caused by smartphones," adding, "This stems from a heightened interest in mental health and well-being."

He also noted, "Using dedicated music devices like the iPod can help decrease smartphone dependence," and "It also helps avoid so-called 'doomscrolling'-the habit of endlessly scrolling through social networking services (SNS) while listening to music."

Before being discontinued, the iPod was released in a variety of models. The original model, launched in 2001, featured a scroll wheel design and is classified as the "Classic." Subsequent models included the Mini, Nano, screenless Shuffle, and the Touch, which was equipped with an iOS-based touchscreen.

Secondhand iPod prices vary by model, generation, and storage capacity. For example, iPod Classic models from the 5th to the 7th generation are typically traded in the 200,000 to 400,000 won range, with some selling for as high as 900,000 won.

To use an old iPod again, it is important to first check the device's charge status. Some models may require battery replacement, and users should also inspect the headphone jack and display for damage. Apple currently offers repair support only for the final generation iPod Touch.

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