As well as appearing in the exhibition, Bandai Gunpla models are also available to purchase within the museum’s retail space
Bandai’s Gundam brand is spotlit in a new exhibition at the British Museum exploring the myths and identities of Japanese samurai warriors.
Bringing together objects and digital media from national and international lenders, the Samurai exhibition, which runs until 4 May, includes Gundam as a prime example of how Japanese storytelling, design and heroic archetypes continue to influence today’s global pop culture.
As part of the showcase, Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Models) is also represented within the museum retail space, with selected kits available to purchase and a model on display. The presence reinforces the brand’s growing cultural relevance and premium positioning in the UK market.
“Gundam is rooted in Japan’s rich design and storytelling heritage, and being featured within the British Museum’s Samurai exhibition is a proud moment for the brand,” said Jack Sturman, Head of Brand at Bandai. “Presenting Gunpla in such a respected cultural setting allows us to reach new audiences and showcase the depth behind the franchise.
“As we continue to invest in expanding the UK footprint of Gundam and Gunpla, initiatives like this reinforce the brand’s position not only as a hobby product, but as a globally recognised pop culture property with enduring cross-generational appeal.”
Further strengthening the collaboration, Bandai will host a dedicated Gundam workshop at the British Museum on 27th March, introducing new audiences to the hands-on building experience that sits at the heart of the Gunpla phenomenon.
Currently celebrating its 45th anniversary, Gunpla remains Bandai’s flagship hobby brand. Since its debut in 1980, the line has evolved into a comprehensive graded model system ranging from accessible Entry Grade kits to highly engineered collector-level releases, blending craftsmanship, fandom and premium model building.
Next month, Bandai is set to launch the much-anticipated Perfect Grade Unleashed 1/60 Nu Gundam – the largest and most technologically advanced Gunpla model ever produced.
