Booming recycling market benefits environment

In Oxford, Kang immersed herself in exploring the city's many charity shops. She even volunteered at Oxfam, the nonprofit organization combating global hunger, which operates over 500 stores in the UK, generating nearly 50 million pounds ($63 million) annually from the sale of donated secondhand goods like clothing, housewares, furniture, and more.

But affordability isn't the sole reason Kang is drawn to secondhand shopping. She values "the opportunity to uncover treasures — especially antique items that offer a glimpse into past production techniques."

Kang has discovered "gems" from the 1920s to 1950s with no signs of wear, such as a 1925 thermos flask and 1950s woolen military long johns.

"There were also high-quality brass tools from decades ago and pop-art pioneers … It felt like I'd stepped into a museum," she said, adding the objects served as a means to travel back in time.

"The years haven't dimmed their brilliance; instead, they made them shine ever brighter," she said.