In the vibrant world of designer toys and collectibles, few names have sparked as much curiosity and admiration in recent years as Labubu. With its quirky smile, wild eyes, and mischievous charm, Labubu has captured the hearts of collectors around the globe. But what exactly is Labubu? Where did it come from? And why has it become such a beloved figure in the toy and pop culture community?
This article dives deep into the story, design, culture, and craze surrounding Labubu. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned collector, you’ll discover why Labubu is more than just a toy—it’s a phenomenon.
The Origins of Labubu
Labubu was created by the Hong Kong-based art duo Kasing Lung and How2work, a designer toy company known for producing limited-edition collectibles with strong artistic value. Kasing Lung, a former comic book illustrator, brought Labubu to life through his unique artistic lens—infusing the figure with an imaginative backstory and an unmistakable appearance.
Labubu is part of a whimsical universe known as The Monsters, where a variety of peculiar creatures exist, each with their own names, shapes, and personalities. Labubu stands out among them due to its impish grin, spiky hair, and slightly eerie yet endearing look. This balance of cuteness and creepiness is exactly what has fueled its widespread appeal.
Design: Where Fantasy Meets Emotion
One of the key reasons Labubu has gained such popularity is its captivating design. It is instantly recognizable—featuring:
- Pointy ears
- Wide, jagged grin
- Big, expressive eyes
- A mischievous, almost fairy-tale-like expression
The design often evokes comparisons to characters from Tim Burton’s world or classic European storybooks—simultaneously dark and magical. Labubu toys are usually crafted with meticulous attention to detail and come in various forms, outfits, and themes. From pirates and astronauts to mystical creatures, each release offers something fresh and imaginative.
These designs tap into universal emotions—curiosity, nostalgia, and the thrill of discovery—making Labubu more than just a figure. It becomes a storytelling object, one that invites you to dream.
The Culture Behind Labubu Collecting
Labubu is not just a product—it’s a lifestyle for many fans. The collectible culture surrounding Labubu is reminiscent of sneaker drops or high-end fashion releases. Limited quantities, exclusive designs, and high resale values make Labubu toys highly sought after.
Collectors gather in online forums, fan pages, and social media groups to share photos, trade figures, and discuss upcoming releases. The community is incredibly passionate, often organizing meetups, trading events, and even custom Labubu showcases.
Why Do People Love Labubu Toy So Much?
There are several reasons for the growing love for Labubu:
- Scarcity: Most Labubu figures are released in small batches, often as blind boxes, making it exciting and unpredictable to collect them.
- Artistic Value: These figures are seen not just as toys but as collectible art pieces.
- Nostalgia & Emotion: Many adults are drawn to Labubu because it reminds them of childhood fantasies mixed with a mature artistic twist.
- Community: The collector base is supportive, active, and diverse—spanning countries and cultures.
Types of Labubu Releases
If you’re just getting into the world of Labubu, here’s a quick guide to the types of releases you’ll encounter:
1. Blind Box Series
This is the most popular format. You buy a box without knowing which design is inside. These series usually include 12–14 figures with one or two rare “secret” designs. For collectors, pulling a rare Labubu is like winning the lottery!
2. Special Editions
These are limited-time releases tied to events, holidays, or collaborations. They often sell out within minutes and can fetch high prices on the secondary market.
3. Jumbo Figures and Plush Versions
For fans who want something bigger or softer, larger Labubu vinyl figures and plush toys are available. These are perfect for display or snuggling up with (yes, adults do that too!).
Collaborations & Limited Editions
Labubu’s popularity has led to some fascinating collaborations. From fashion brands and museums to pop culture icons, Labubu has teamed up with big names for ultra-limited runs. These special editions usually feature unique designs and themes not available in regular collections.
For instance, there was a highly praised Labubu x Pop Mart series that brought more international attention to the character. These figures often feature enhanced details, high-quality paint, and even accessories.
Labubu Toy in Pop Culture
While still largely a collector’s niche, Labubu is slowly making its way into mainstream pop culture. The figure is featured in unboxing videos, Instagram reels, TikTok content, and even art gallery displays. Influencers, toy reviewers, and artists frequently highlight Labubu in their content, introducing it to wider audiences.
What’s striking is how Labubu appeals to both the young and the young-at-heart. For children, it’s a whimsical creature from a magical world. For adults, it’s a piece of art, a collectible investment, or simply a way to reconnect with imagination in a chaotic world.
Buying Labubu: Tips for New Collectors
If you’re interested in starting your own Labubu collection, here are some essential tips:
1. Start with Blind Boxes
Blind boxes are affordable and a fun way to begin. You may not always get what you want, but that’s part of the experience.
2. Join Online Communities
Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and Instagram tags like #labubu or #labubucollection are great places to learn, connect, and trade.
3. Beware of Fakes
With rising popularity comes imitation. Always buy from trusted retailers like Pop Mart, official artist sites, or verified resellers.
4. Stay Updated on Drops
New Labubu releases are often announced on social media or fan forums. Setting alerts can help you grab one before they sell out.
Labubu as an Art Investment
Believe it or not, some Labubu figures have become investment items. Limited editions have been known to triple or even quadruple in value on resale platforms. While not every piece will be worth a fortune, the combination of scarcity and demand has made certain designs particularly valuable.
This has attracted not just fans, but also art collectors and investors. However, true fans know that the emotional value of owning a Labubu often outweighs the monetary one.
The Future of Labubu
As of 2025, Labubu shows no signs of slowing down. With more collaborations, expanding fanbases, and new character developments within the Monsters universe, it’s clear that Labubu is not just a passing trend.
Artists like Kasing Lung are continuing to push boundaries with their storytelling and design, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next evolution of the character. Will we see an animated series? A video game? Perhaps even a Labubu theme park? The possibilities are as wild and imaginative as Labubu itself.
Conclusion
In a world overflowing with digital distractions, Labubu brings people back to a place of physical joy—of holding a beautifully designed object in their hands, of collecting, sharing, and storytelling. It represents the powerful fusion of art, play, and community.
The keyword here isn’t just Labubu—it’s creativity. Labubu thrives because it awakens that spark of wonder that we all carry, even if it sometimes lies buried under adulthood’s weight. Through playful forms, expressive faces, and a hint of mystery, Labubu invites us all to reimagine the world through eyes wide open.
So, whether you’re hunting for that rare glow-in-the-dark Labubu or just admiring its artistry online, one thing is certain: Labubu is here to stay, and it’s turning the world of designer toys into something truly magical.