TWICE's Momo surprises Pokémon fans by removing PSA 9 card from protective case

TWICE member Momo has sparked discussion among Pokémon Trading Card Game collectors after removing a graded Suicune ex card from its protective PSA holder and placing it inside her phone case.

The Japanese singer was first seen carrying the card at Incheon International Airport on July 19. Fans later identified it as a first-edition Suicune ex 027/080 from the Japanese Magma vs Aqua: Two Ambitions expansion, released on October 24 2003.

Momo shared an Instagram post showing the card inside her transparent phone case. She also posted a selfie holding the loose card against her cheek, along with a photo of the opened PSA slab, appearing to confirm it had been removed from its holder.

The move surprised collectors, with one widely shared post on X stating, "MOMO'S SUICUNE POKEMON CARD WAS A PSA 9 BUT SHE BROKE OPEN THE SLAB JUST TO PUT IT IN HER PHONE CASE."

According to PriceCharting, a PSA 9 copy is estimated at $171.29 based on a single recorded sale in June 2025.

An ungraded version is valued at $54.65, while a PSA 10 is listed at $813.82. Online listings for PSA 9 copies are higher, ranging from around $650 to over $1,000, though these are asking prices rather than completed sales.

Removing the card from its slab does not automatically damage it, and it can be resubmitted for grading. However, it no longer retains its certified PSA 9 status, and any wear from being carried in a phone case could affect future grading.

The decision divided collectors and fans. Some questioned why a graded card was used instead of a raw copy, while others said owners should be free to use collectibles as they wish.

Some fans joked the card’s value had increased due to Momo’s ownership, while fellow TWICE member Nayeon commented, "Steal the card," on Instagram.