The Labubu Doll Phenomenon: A Global Collectible Craze

Introduction to the Labubu Doll

The Labubu doll, a quirky, plush monster elf created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, has taken the world by storm since its debut in 2015. Originating from Lung’s Nordic mythology-inspired children’s book series, The Monsters, the Labubu doll is a mischievous yet kind-hearted character with pointy ears, sharp teeth, and a round, furry body. Marketed by Chinese retailer Pop Mart, the Labubu doll has evolved from a niche figurine to a global collectible sensation, especially after its 2019 partnership with Pop Mart introduced vinyl plush bag charms. The Labubu doll gained massive popularity in 2024 when K-pop star Lisa from Blackpink showcased one on her Instagram, sparking a buying frenzy across Southeast Asia and beyond. By 2025, Pop Mart had released over 300 Labubu doll variants, ranging from $15 keychains to a $960 mega 31-inch figure, with rare editions fetching thousands on resale platforms like StockX. Its “blind box” format, where buyers don’t know which variant they’ll get, adds an element of surprise, fueling the craze among collectors of all ages. This article explores the rise of the Labubu doll, its cultural impact, collecting tips, and why it has become a must-have accessory.

The Cultural Impact of the Labubu Doll

The Labubu doll has transcended its status as a toy to become a cultural phenomenon, blending nostalgia, fashion, and social media hype. Its “ugly-cute” aesthetic—featuring a mischievous grin and fuzzy design—appeals to both kids and adults, aligning with the “kidult” trend where grown-ups embrace playful collectibles. The doll’s popularity exploded after celebrities like Lisa, Rihanna, and Dua Lipa were spotted with Labubu dolls clipped to their designer bags, turning them into status symbols. Social media, particularly TikTok with 1.4 million #Labubu posts, has amplified the craze, with fans sharing unboxing videos and DIY accessories like tiny Louis Vuitton outfits. The Labubu doll has also sparked community engagement, with collectors forming Facebook groups and Discord servers to trade tips and hunt rare editions. However, its intense demand has led to chaotic scenes, like fights in UK stores and a website crash during the Big Into Energy launch. In 2024, Pop Mart reported $419 million in Labubu doll sales, a 726% growth from the previous year, showcasing its economic impact. Despite controversies, such as Russia’s proposed ban over its “frightening” look, the Labubu doll remains a global icon of modern pop culture.

Collecting the Labubu Doll: Tips and Challenges

Collecting the Labubu doll is both thrilling and challenging due to its blind box format and limited-edition releases. Each blind box, priced between $20-$30, contains a random Labubu doll from series like Exciting Macaron or Have a Seat, with “secret” or rare variants driving collectors wild. For example, a gray Labubu with rainbow teeth from the Big Into Energy series can fetch $500 on resale platforms. To increase chances of getting desired variants, collectors use tricks like checking Pop Mart’s Pop Now page or modifying URLs to skip sold-out boxes, a hack popularized on TikTok. However, the Labubu doll market faces issues with counterfeits, nicknamed “Lafufus,” which mimic authentic designs but lack quality. Authenticating a Labubu doll involves checking for Pop Mart’s official packaging and serial numbers. Collectors also face high resale prices, with some spending thousands to complete sets. Despite these challenges, the thrill of unboxing and accessorizing Labubu dolls with custom outfits keeps fans hooked. Pop Mart’s strategic collaborations, like the Coca-Cola-themed series, further fuel demand. For new collectors, starting with Pop Mart’s official website or stores is the safest bet to avoid scams.

Why the Labubu Doll Captivates Collectors

The Labubu doll captivates collectors through a blend of scarcity, emotional connection, and clever marketing. The blind box format creates a gamified experience, where the anticipation of unveiling a rare figure mirrors opening a Pokémon card pack. This unpredictability, combined with limited-edition drops, drives urgency—some fans camp overnight at Pop Mart stores or travel internationally for launches. The Labubu doll also taps into nostalgia, evoking childhood joy for adults while appealing to kids with its cuddly yet quirky design. Its versatility as a bag charm or display piece allows collectors to personalize their dolls, with Etsy sellers offering bootleg Prada or Lululemon outfits. Social media amplifies this obsession, with influencers like Lana Rae garnering millions of views for unboxing videos. The emotional bond is evident in stories like nonagenarian chef Guadalupe Fiñana, who cried upon receiving an oversized Labubu. However, the craze has downsides, including resellers inflating prices and incidents of violence over limited stock. Despite these, the Labubu doll remains a symbol of identity and community, with fans expressing themselves through their collections. Its global appeal shows no signs of slowing, cementing its place as a cultural necessity.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Labubu Dolls

1. What is a Labubu doll?
A Labubu doll is a collectible plush toy monster elf created by Kasing Lung, part of The Monsters series, sold by Pop Mart. It’s known for its pointy ears, sharp teeth, and mischievous charm, often used as a bag charm.

2. Why are Labubu dolls so popular?
Their popularity stems from celebrity endorsements (e.g., Blackpink’s Lisa), the blind box format, and social media hype on platforms like TikTok. The “ugly-cute” design and customization options also attract collectors.

3. Where can I buy authentic Labubu dolls?
Purchase from Pop Mart’s official website, physical stores, or Robo Shop vending machines. Avoid third-party sites like eBay unless verified, as counterfeits (“Lafufus”) are common.

4. How much do Labubu dolls cost?
Prices range from $15 for small keychains to $960 for mega figures. Rare editions can resell for $500-$1,000+ on platforms like StockX. A life-size Labubu sold for $170,000 at a Beijing auction in 2025.

5. How can I spot a fake Labubu doll?
Check for Pop Mart’s official packaging, serial numbers, and quality stitching. Counterfeits often have poor craftsmanship or missing brand marks. Joining collector communities can provide authentication tips.

6. What are the most popular Labubu doll series?
Exciting Macaron (2023), Have a Seat (2024), and Big Into Energy (2024) are top series, with secret variants being the most coveted. Collaborations like Coca-Cola and One Piece are also popular.